Our Story
Anytime God births a church, it is a miracle. Heritage Christian Fellowship began in December of 1998 through a series of circumstances that only the Lord could have arranged.
What started with a pastor who thought his ministry was coming to an end, a small group of praying believers, and an empty storefront church became the beginning of a church family that continues to this day.
God Birthed a Church
After 28 years of ministry, Pastor Tom Long believed his time in pastoral ministry had come to an end. Leadership changes at his former church suddenly ended that season, and he began preparing to return to teaching.
He was not planning to pursue ministry again, but for those who are called, the ministry has a way of pursuing them.
A Small Group Was Praying
Around that same time, Pastor Tom walked into a small storefront church near a coffee house. The church was preparing to close, but a small group of believers had been praying and asking God to provide a new pastor.
They had gathered around a table, written down the qualities they were praying for, and surrendered their list to the Lord. During their final “Amen,” Pastor Tom was introduced to them.
A Pastor Without a Church
A short time later, Pastor Tom received a call. The group had access to the church facility, Sunday school rooms, chairs, sound equipment, and a lease that had already been paid for the next three months.
They were a church without a pastor, and he was a pastor without a church.
Trusting the Lord
Pastor Tom, his wife Sandi, and the families with them prayed and considered what the Lord might be doing. The idea of starting again was intimidating, but the Lord impressed on Pastor Tom’s heart, “I’ve got this, My son. Trust Me.”
The Beginning of Heritage
In less than two months after leaving ministry, Pastor Tom found himself back behind a pulpit with 37 adults, a handful of children, a fully furnished church, Sunday school rooms, and a lease paid in full for 90 days.
That same week, the purpose statement was written and the church was incorporated as Heritage Christian Fellowship.
Within a year, Heritage grew from 37 adults to well over 150. Within two years, the church had grown to more than 250 people. What began as an unexpected step of faith became a lasting church family.
Still Trusting the Lord
From the beginning, Heritage has been built on the faithfulness of God, the teaching of His Word, worship, prayer, fellowship, and the care of His people.
We are grateful for the way the Lord began this church, and we continue to trust Him as He leads Heritage today.