In 1993, Pastor Neese founded Grace Valley Baptist Church in a one-car garage on Stout Road. For two years, services were held amidst humble surroundings, but the congregation persevered with faith and dedication. In 1995, the church moved to its current location on Highway 29, where a permanent building was constructed, funded through the prayers and contributions of many.
Pastor Don Neese
Pastor Neese’s journey of faith began on April 4, 1982, when he was 19 years old. Though he had always believed in Christ’s existence, it was on that day that he fully trusted in Him and committed his life to God. By the age of 20, Pastor Neese was working with youth at his church, and in 1988, he answered the call to preach. Despite initially aspiring to be a highway patrol officer or even join the military, Pastor Neese recognized that God’s plan for him was in ministry. He describes his calling as intense and undeniable, a divine direction that has defined his life ever since.
Pastor Don Neese’s journey in ministry began in Pensacola, Florida, where he served as pastor of Walnut Avenue Baptist Church in Ensley for five years. While deeply involved with the Landmark Missionary Baptist Churches, Pastor Neese felt a calling from God for something different. After much prayer and reflection, he resigned and began seeking God’s guidance for the next chapter of his ministry.
With the call to start a church but no clear roadmap, Pastor Neese faced challenges and uncertainty. One pivotal night, seeking clarity from God, he spent time in prayer on a swing in his front yard and decided he would not budge until he heard from God. There, God spoke to him, confirming the call to start Grace Valley Baptist Church.