In 1976, a small group of missionaries began what would become Calvary Chapel Santa Barbara.

Fifty years later, the church is marking five decades of ministry in Santa Barbara with an anniversary celebration, 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 6 at the Great Meadow in Chase Palm Park, 323 E. Cabrillo Blvd.

The celebration, themed Faithful 50, will combine the church’s history of worship and ministry with a distinctly Hawaiian flair.

The morning will feature live worship from the Calvary Santa Barbara worship team, with guest musician Jadon Lavik, along with messages from Pastors Ricky Ryan, David Guzik and Tommy Schneider.

“Personal testimonies will also reflect on the ways God has worked through the church and its people over the past five decades,” organizers said.

The 60-90 minute celebration will be followed by food, fellowship, and activities for families and children.

Calvary Chapel Santa Barbara has spent five decades serving the Santa Barbara community through a variety of ministries and outreach efforts, church officials said.

The programs have included prison ministry, homeless outreach, feeding programs, support of Franklin Elementary School and its after-school programs, and an annual Easter worship service held in the Santa Barbara Courthouse Sunken Garden.

“The Great Meadow at Chase Palm Park holds a special place in the church’s history of community gatherings,” organizers said. “Located along Santa Barbara’s coastline, the park has hosted a number of Calvary Chapel Santa Barbara events over the years and provides a fitting setting for the church to celebrate its 50th anniversary.”

For more about Calvary Chapel Santa Barbara, visit calvarysb.com.