During the spring of 1991, Dr. Younce visited relatives in Walnut Grove and the surrounding area.  As always, he engaged folks in friendly conversation and asked each the same question, "Do you know if you are going to Heaven?"  Only once did he get the answer, Yes, I know I'm going to Heaven."  He pressed the individual as to how she knew and she replied, "I know I'm going to Heaven because I believe Jesus died to pay for my sins and I am trusting Him for my eternal life".  All others responded with "Well, I hope so" or "I have been baptized" or "I am a member of such and such church."

It became obvious there was a need in this area for a church that taught salvation is not obtained by any activity of man such as confession of sin, communion, baptism, or good works.  "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast."  (Ephesians 2:8,9).  The need was a church that would preach the Gospel with clarity.

On his return to his church in Perry, Ohio,  Pastor Younce attempted to find someone who would accept the challenge of founding just such a church.  Since a volunteer did not step forward, Pastor Younce concluded that God had placed the responsibility on him.

Pastor Younce resigned his church in Ohio.  He and his wife, Marge, sold their home there and relocated to Walnut Grove in the summer of 1991.  A Bible study was begun in their home in December of that year.  The first church services were held in their home in June of 1992 with the Heritage Baptist Bible Church moving to their first permanent building later that year.  In April of 1994 the church purchased their present building and began extensive remodeling with the membership and pastor all participating. They moved to their present location around Thanksgiving of 1994.

The fact that Heritage Baptist Bible Church is in existence today is a testimony to the grace of God and the faithfulness of its members and friends. The church is a lighthouse in the area and through the witness of our faithful members, many have come to know Christ as their Savior.  This is prominently a Lutheran and Catholic area and the resentment is great, but the "word of God is powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword".  The false teachings of baptismal regeneration, infant baptism, sprinkling instead of immersion, preachers claiming they can forgive sin, works for salvation, etc., have permeated the area for a hundred years.  Some fight against the truth, while others accept it and are saved.  It is "God that giveth the increase".

Heritage Baptist Bible Church is an independent church and receives no funds from any outside organization.   "Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it..." (Psalm 127:1a)  We give thanks to God for all He has done and look forward to what He will do in the future.  It is as bright as the promises of God!