The first worship service of Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church was held November 1 (All Saints’ Day), 1964, at the IOOF Hall in downtown Soquel. The first pastor of the congregation was The Rev. Victor Herrmann, who served the congregation until his death from a heart attack in 1965.

The congregation called The Rev. Paul Pfotenhauer in 1965, and he faithfully served the congregation until his retirement in 1994. During his pastorate, the present church structure was built and dedicated in 1966.  The congregation developed with a strong focus on the ministry of the Gospel, an appreciation of good preaching and worship, and a responsible social ministry. The congregation was a founding member of the Interfaith Satellite Shelter Program for homeless people in the Santa Cruz area.

In 1995, Mt. Calvary called The Rev. Stan Abraham who has served the congregation to the present. His focus is on good worship and preaching, leading Bible classes, faithful administration, and ministry to homeless/houseless people.