Mark and Tracy Kirk moved to Knoxville in June 1997 after hearing the call of God to come here and plant a Bible-teaching church that would minister to and love the people of this community. In the beginning, times were lean, as Mark waited tables to earn a living for his family while teaching a weekly Bible study. Initially, the Bible study began in the clubhouse of a local apartment complex, but it was later moved into a residential home in an affluent area of Knoxville. After meeting in this home for a year and a half and having an average attendance of about 90 people, it was time for another move.

The Lord soon provided a local shopping center that, with a lot of work, would perfectly meet the church’s needs. After about six months of labor and $80,000, Calvary Knoxville had its first building. After the first year, the church more than doubled in size and now had an average attendance of about 200 people. As time passed, ministries began to be birthed, and the church became increasingly established.

Calvary Knoxville remained at this location for 16 years, but in May 2013, it moved to its present location. It now occupies 43 acres and more than 22,000 square feet of space. God has been faithful to provide every step of the way, and we are excited to see what lies ahead!