Downtown Valpo was glowing on the morning of Sunday, June 19. Calvary Church had its annual Father’s Day service in Central Park Plaza. Over 1,500 community and church members picnicked in the park in celebration of worship.
Jessica Lewis, staff member at Calvary, said, “By having our entire congregation in the center of downtown Valpo, we are able to passively draw others to Calvary and more to the gospel. This is our fourth year having this event, and we’re really excited to be here.”
The worship service started at 11 am but guests came early, decorating the park with chairs and blankets. Local vendors such as Valpo Velvet, Valpo Vienna’s, and Ben’s Soft Pretzels set up shop, allowing guests to purchase lunch and snacks during the service.
Click here to see all the photos from the 2016 Father's Day in the Park!
Lewis continued, “I really like that this event is inclusive of the whole Valparaiso community. Not everyone here is a member; some are in the process of becoming members, some are here just here in celebration of Father’s Day and worship. My family has been with Calvary for over 10 years, and it is always welcoming new members.”
After the congregation celebrated through song, Lionel Young, head pastor at Calvary, spoke to the congregation about the importance of family and the spirituality.
Sydney Perry, member of Calvary, was playing the piano alongside other singers. Perry said, “Calvary is saturated with opportunity. People are welcomed with open arms into fellowship, service, leadership, and growth. It reaches people of all ages and draws them to Jesus, which is the purpose of it in the first place.”
It was evident that gratitude was a main theme throughout the morning. This is one of many events that Calvary hosts within the community. Such events encourage youth in Valparaiso to get involved, promoting for a healthier and socially responsible community.
Perry summarized the event and mission of Calvary perfectly. She continued, “There's always room for even more in the body of Christ. Calvary isn't just a church; it's a family of believers doing life together, growing in Christ, and spreading the Good News to Northwest Indiana and the world.”