Heritage Christian Life Center

Heritage Church was founded in June 1972 by Rev. James E. Sandy. What is known today as Heritage Christian Life Center began with humble beginnings—home Bible studies, tent meetings, and gatherings in a small auction building on Bullfrog Corner. As the congregation grew, a sanctuary was established at 310 Stateline Road, followed by the construction of a new sanctuary at that same location in 1976. In 1980, Heritage Christian Academy was also established there.

With a vision for the future and the leading of the Lord, the church family purchased property at 6100 Elmore Road in 1986. During construction, the congregation met in several temporary locations, including Rasco Road, Airways, and a vacant restaurant building known as Catfish Landing on Highway 51. In 1988, Heritage officially moved into its new home on Elmore Road.

As Southaven continued to grow, the Stateline property was eventually purchased by Golden Corral, further confirming God’s direction in the church’s relocation. From its earliest days, Pastor Sandy faithfully led the church with a burden for souls that never diminished. For 45 years, he not only served as pastor but also as a friend and spiritual leader to people from all walks of life. Under his leadership, Heritage experienced tremendous growth, both spiritually and numerically, as many labored together in the Kingdom of God.

In 2017, Pastor Sandy transitioned to the role of bishop, passing the pastoral leadership to Rev. Nathaniel A. Urshan II. Alongside his wife Jacqueline, Pastor Urshan led the church into continued revival. During his tenure, the sanctuary was completely remodeled, and the church saw renewed growth through outreach efforts in Southaven and the surrounding areas.

In February 2020, Pastor Urshan was called to pastor the First Pentecostal Church of Durham in North Carolina. Following his resignation, the congregation elected Rev. Tim Adams of Ozark, Arkansas, as pastor.

Under the leadership of Pastor Tim Adams and his wife Lauren, Heritage Church continues to move forward with vision and purpose. In March 2021, God provided a miracle opportunity for the church to purchase a beautiful 12.5-acre property at 700 Church Road East, complete with four buildings. This new campus offers much-needed space and positions Heritage to effectively minister to Southaven, DeSoto County, and the surrounding region.

Through the years, many faithful individuals have contributed to the work of Heritage—some remaining for a lifetime, others serving for a season before being called elsewhere. Many cherished members have gone on to their heavenly home, leaving behind a legacy of faith and dedication.

Today, Heritage Church continues to look forward with an unwavering vision. As one generation has passed the torch to the next, the mission remains the same: to reach a hurting world with the message of Jesus Christ. With gratitude for the past and faith for the future, the church presses forward, believing that the greatest days are still ahead. To God be the glory for all He has done.