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Calvary Temple is a welcoming church in Fairmont, West Virginia. We’re passionate about biblical truth, meaningful worship, prayer, and building a church family where people of all ages can grow in their walk with Christ.
Whether you’ve been in church your whole life or you’re just beginning to ask questions about faith, we want this to be a place where you feel comfortable, cared for, and invited to take your next step.
From a small revival in 1929 to a thriving church today, Calvary Temple has remained committed to one mission… sharing the Gospel and serving our community.
What began in a simple recreation hall has grown into a church family built on faith, prayer, and a heart to give.
From a small revival in 1929 to a thriving church today, the story of Calvary Temple is one of faith, perseverance, and God’s continued work through generations. What began in a simple recreation hall in a coal mining community has grown into a church family grounded in prayer, committed to biblical truth, and devoted to serving others.
Through seasons of growth, challenge, and change, God has remained faithful. From the early days of faithful leadership and sacrifice, to the expansion of the church campus, to the lives that have been changed through ministry and outreach, every chapter of this story points to His hand at work. Generations have come through these doors… families have been strengthened, young people have answered the call to ministry, and countless lives have been impacted by the message of Jesus Christ.
Today, Calvary Temple stands as a testimony to what God can do through a people who remain committed to Him. As we look back on where we’ve been, we do so with gratitude… and as we look ahead, we do so with faith, believing that the same God who has led us this far will continue to guide us into the future.
Calvary Temple began in 1929 when Rev. Harry V. Schaeffer came to the coal mining town of Carolina, West Virginia, to hold a revival. Services were held in a simple recreation hall beside the local ball field, and people came from surrounding communities to experience the power of Pentecost for the first time.
What began as a four-week crusade soon became a church.
In 1934, the church was officially established, and Ina Pitman was appointed pastor. She faithfully led the congregation for sixteen years, guiding the church through difficult seasons, including World War II. Even when attendance was small, she remained committed… often walking to church in all kinds of weather and faithfully praying for the needs of the community.
Following the war, the church experienced growth as many came to faith and were filled with the Holy Spirit.
In 1953, the congregation purchased and remodeled the recreation building into a permanent place of worship. Under continued leadership, the church grew steadily, and young people began answering the call to ministry.
In 1973, land was purchased on Swisher Hill in Fairmont, and by 1974 the church relocated and became known as Calvary Temple. Over the next decade, the campus expanded with additional classrooms, offices, and a larger auditorium to accommodate continued growth.
In 1985, Rev. A.E. Shuttlesworth became pastor, bringing renewed spiritual direction and strengthening the church’s foundation. In 1986, Pastor Tim Shuttlesworth joined as co-pastor and led a thriving youth ministry that impacted hundreds of young people, many of whom went on to serve in ministry.
In the years that followed, the church experienced both spiritual and practical growth. Under Pastor Tim’s leadership, Calvary Temple became debt-free and expanded its vision for outreach and community impact.
One of the most significant developments was the construction of the Ina F. Pitman Activity Center… a facility designed to serve families, young people, and the broader community. This center stands as a lasting reminder of the church’s commitment not only to gather, but to give.
Throughout its history, Calvary Temple has remained committed to serving others, supporting the community, and sharing the message of Jesus Christ.
We are a church of faith… and our mission remains the same today as it was in the beginning:
The Great Commission.
