About Heritage Church

Who We Are

At Heritage Church, we are a multi-generational congregation passionate about the faithful preaching and teaching of God's Word. Located in the heart of downtown Shawnee, our mission is to foster warm, Christ-centered fellowship across all ages. We are dedicated to equipping and encouraging each other to share the message of salvation locally and globally.

What We Believe

Heritage Church’s formal statement of faith is the Baptist Faith and Message 2000. Our beliefs are consistent with the Nicene and Chalcedonian creeds.

A young family with a child being warmly greeted by a woman handing out bulletins at the entrance of a church building, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Two women from different generations sharing a heartfelt conversation while enjoying coffee on a comfortable leather couch in a welcoming community space.
A young girl in a pink dress happily sliding down a playground slide, with other children playing in the background on a sunny day.
A group of individuals enjoying coffee and conversation in a warm, rustic community space with exposed brick walls and wooden accents.
A young girl deeply engaged in reading a book while seated on a small wooden ladder in a cozy, well-lit corner of a bookstore.

Our Mission

The distinct mission of our local church may be recognized by our 5 core values:

Historic black and white panoramic photograph framed on a wall above an open Bible and candle in a serene room.

The Heritage Church Story

A Unified Church Family Rooted in History and Love

At Heritage Church, we live out the truth of Ephesians 4:4-6:

“There is one body and one Spirit – just as you were called to one hope that belongs to your call – one Lord, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”

We are a unified body of believers dedicated to fostering belonging, building community, and nurturing spiritual growth, all rooted in the love of Jesus Christ. We believe His transformative love offers hope, peace, and purpose—not just for individuals, but entire communities. Through our actions, service, and words, we aim to reflect His unconditional love and grace. Standing on the strong foundations of our past, we continue striving to be a living testament to His love, inspiring others to experience His transformative power.

Our Shared History: 200+ Years of Faith in Shawnee, Oklahoma

Heritage Church stands as the result of over two centuries of church history in Shawnee. In November 2022, Heritage Church and First Baptist Church united after eight months of prayerful collaboration, replanting as one congregation with a shared mission and vision.

First Baptist Church's roots stretch back before Oklahoma’s statehood, officially founded as “First Baptist Church of Shawnee, Indian Territory.” For over 125 years, it faithfully served in the heart of downtown Shawnee, where our current campus resides.

Similarly, Heritage Church traces its origins to 1934, beginning as a rescue mission called Oklahoma Avenue Baptist Church in downtown Shawnee. Later, it relocated to Bryan Road and became known as Heritage Church.

Our shared history, deeply intertwined with the growth of Shawnee itself, played a pivotal role in uniting our congregations.

The Replant: One Church, One Family Table

In November 2022, we officially became one body—Heritage Church and First Baptist Church—recognizing that together, we could offer more to our city and community than apart. Both churches sought something more: a representation of all generations, fuller utilization of space, and a renewed vision for ministry.

Our guiding vision document used the powerful image of The Family Table:

"Through this replant, the people of our city will be afforded something that neither church can offer on its own: a seat at the family table. For Heritage, we will be able to offer a seat at the family table. Heritage will be able to welcome new members to a seat at a healthy church committed to discipleship, theological education, and the sound preaching of the Word. For First Baptist, we will be able to offer a seat at the family table. More than providing sound doctrine, our replant will provide a healthy church family comprising all generations, one which is able to disciple and encourage members from all walks of life."

This replant stands as a testimony of unity—both to Shawnee and the broader faith community. We’ve chosen to lay aside individual interests and preferences, focusing instead on expository preaching, theological education, excellence in music, discipleship, and serving as an evangelistic, healing presence.

We invite you to Join Us at the Family Table, where people of all generations and walks of life are welcomed, discipled, and equipped to share the love of Christ.

You have a standing invitation to worship with us downtown at 227 N. Union.