A Shipwrecked Faith
“I Am The Vine; You Are The Branches. Whoever Abides In Me & I In Him, He It Is That Bears Much Fruit, For Apart From Me You Can Do Nothing.” John 15:5, ESV
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A Shipwrecked Faith
By: Elijah Bell
On January 13, 2012, the Italian cruise ship Costa Concordia struck an underwater rock off the island of Giglio after Captain Francesco Schettino decided to deviate off course close to shore to perform a sail-past salute, called an inchino (meaning "the bow" or "curtsy"). The ship struck the rock, and a 53-meter-long gash was torn in the hull, flooding the ship and causing it to capsize to its starboard side. The captain held off calling for an evacuation while he himself abandoned ship, resulting in the deaths of 32 people onboard.
The ship wasn’t taken down by an unforeseen storm, a rogue wave, or a fire. It was shipwrecked because of the captain forgetting the main thing—piloting the vessel safely along the charted route—and focusing on self in a vain attempt to display his skill at navigating the vessel close to shore to show off for the praise of people.
In 1 Timothy 1, the church in Ephesus was filled with leaders who wanted “to be teachers of the Law, even though they do not understand either what they are saying or the matters about which they make confident assertions.” (1 Timothy 1:7). Paul compared them to captains who had shipwrecked their faith: “keeping faith and a good conscience, which some, having rejected, suffered shipwreck in regard to their faith” (1 Timothy 1:19). The problem was they were not focusing on the main thing—love from a pure heart (v. 5), but rather knowledge for knowledge sake, while never allowing that knowledge to transform them (vv. 4-6).
This Sunday, August 30th, 2026, we will look at 1 Timothy 1 and note what a shipwrecked faith looks like, as well as Paul’s solution as seen in his own life example. We hope to see you there so we can all learn how to navigate safely through the waters of life together.
News
This Section Is For Any Special Announcements That Are Not Upcoming Events Or Prayer Requests.
William Joseph Crisis Nursery Ministry Update
We are pleased to share several exciting updates from the William Joseph Crisis Nursery as the organization continues to grow, expand its services, and strengthen its impact in the communities we serve.
We have officially named Shaine Kerns as Executive Director of the William Joseph Crisis Nursery. Rachel Moore has transitioned into the role of CEO, where she will focus on continued growth and expansion into Louisville, Hazard, and other communities.
Our Supervised Visits Program continues to experience steady growth, with new referrals being received on a weekly basis. We are also continuing to work closely with the Office of Inspector General as we move forward through the licensing process. We are grateful to report that our bedrooms and living rooms are now completed and fully furnished, marking another important step toward serving children and families.
We are currently in the process of applying for a VAWA grant, which would provide additional support for our work with domestic violence survivors. We have also been approved to participate in Give for Good Louisville, with this year's giving campaign closing on September 10.
A special thank-you goes to the volunteers from Holly Hill who have assisted with our infant pantry. Because of their help, our inventory is being tracked more closely, and the pantry is functioning efficiently and effectively.
Planning also continues with our Community Impact Group for The Gospel Explosion Fundraiser. The event has grown beyond what we originally anticipated, and in order to provide the best experience possible, we have decided to postpone the fundraiser until a later date in May. Additional details will be shared as plans are finalized.
Finally, our Domestic Violence Survivor Support Group continues to thrive. We are consistently welcoming 12–14 women to the group, providing an important place for encouragement, connection, and support.
We are thankful for the continued growth of the William Joseph Crisis Nursery and for everyone who supports this ministry through prayer, volunteering, giving, and encouragement. Please continue to pray for our leadership, the licensing process, future expansion, and—most importantly—the children and families we have the privilege of serving.
2027 Honduras Mission Trip
Hermanos,
I hope you're doing well. Plans are coming together for our 2027 Honduras trip. I wanted to get the key dates and details in front of everyone so you can begin planning.
Trip Dates
Our trip will be February 12–19, 2027.
The trip is limited to 75 spots based on the hotel's bed capacity. As in previous years, a group will go down the week before to prepare the sites and materials for our work. This year, that group will also build an additional house before we arrive (more on that below). That group is set, and nine of those fifteen men will stay over for the main week.
That leaves 66 spots available for the February 12–19 trip. Last year, these spots filled up over a weekend once registration opened.
Applications Open October 1
Applications will open on October 1, 2026. We'll announce the registration process and provide instructions as we get closer.
When you apply, you'll need:
A valid passport
A $750 deposit
The total trip cost for those traveling with the Nashville group will be $1,500. The remaining $750 balance for those flying from Nashville is due by December 31, 2026.
If you'll be flying from another airport, you'll arrange and pay for your own airfare. Your trip fee will be $800, due October 1, which covers your in-country expenses.
If you don't already have a passport, or if yours expires within 6 months after our travel dates, now is the time to start that process.
The 2027 Plan
We'll build 7 homes during this trip. One of those homes will be built during the pre-week for a preacher in Germanía, near Siguatepeque, at Osman's request. The remaining 6 homes will be built during our regular week together.
The lumber for all seven homes has already been ordered.
As always, the houses are only part of what we're supporting. Our fundraising also helps provide the annual support that allows Osman and his ministry to continue serving the communities on that mountain long after we return home.
Our fundraising goal this year is $100,000.
We'll provide additional information soon about how to contribute, make trip payments, and support the work financially.
We're looking forward to another opportunity to serve together. If you've been thinking about coming, I encourage you to begin making plans now. More details about registration, payments, flights, and preparation will be coming over the next several weeks.
Todd Austin (todd@sixaustins.com)
Gift For Baby Luster
Beginning Sunday, September 6, we will be collecting monetary donations toward a gift card for Baby Luster.
A collection box will be available on the table in the foyer for anyone who would like to contribute. Donations will be collected for two weeks.
Thank you for helping us celebrate and bless the Luster family as they welcome their new little one!
Aug 30 | Worship Duty Roster
C2W: Ricky Drawbaugh Jr.
Songs: Bradley Richardson
Prayer: Bruce Blanton
Lord's Supper: David Richardson
Scripture: Matthew Woodyard
Sep 6 | Worship Duty Roster
C2W: Mike Mayes
Songs: David Jones
Prayer: Robert Roach
Lord’s Supper: Jeff Jones
Scripture: Brad Gregory
Sep 13 | Worship Duty Roster
C2W: David Richardson
Songs: Tom Owens
Prayer: Ricky Drawbaugh Sr.
Lord’s Supper: Tom Roach
Scripture: Stefan Rudic
Aug 23 | Attendance & Contribution
Bible Class Attendance: 87
Worship Attendance: 150
Contribution: $5,053.00
Prayers
Here Are Some Individuals That Especially Need Our Prayers This Week. Please Keep Them In Mind Every Time You Pray.
NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:
Lynn Baker Kennedy
Lori Williams
Judy Casey
Brenda Perkins
David Sorrell
Pearl Burdette
Rick Hanks
Frank Staley
Raina Wise
Caleb Baker
Amanda Friend
ONGOING PRAYERS FOR: Addison Darnell; Larry & Mary Mundt; Verlin Dossett; Dan Volpe; Heather Strickland; Teresa Cole; Gary Wilkins; The Clark & Roberts Family; Winfred & Fern Perkins; Samantha Stone; Mike & Kimberly Mundt; Susan Kennon; Jerry Mayes; Helen Hall; Michael Warner; The Sudduth & Proctor Family; Robert Widener; Teresa Presley; The White Family; Adam Ripperdan; Dorothy Lyons; Charlotte Reynold; Jackie Hensley; David Gaddie; Robert Roach (Father); Emmie Forrest; The Drake Family; Pat Jones; Brenda Stone; Ashli Mayes; Bob Dabney; Ezra Caldwell; Jackye Stockton; Jim & Valerie Clark; Lee Isleman; Jim Norrick; Phil & Suzanne Wilkins; Joue Manglicmot; Betty Blanton; Cora Owens; Geneva Hammons; Cathy Steele; Janis Friend; Tammy Radcliff; Jeannie LeBeau; Sonia Roach; Kim Tillett; Carl Stoner; Robin Ibershoff; Charlene Ramsey; Inez Chatham; Jessie Tropoulos; Janice Coffelt; Polly Deaton; Janice Gregory; Penny Harland; Alyssa Deaton.
Upcoming Events
All Of The Upcoming Events That You Need To Make Space On Your Calendar For.
Aug 30 | 5th Sunday Potluck
Everyone is invited to join us for our 5th Sunday Potluck on Sunday, August 30, immediately following morning worship.
This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a meal together, spend time in fellowship, and strengthen the relationships we share as a church family.
Please bring your favorite sides and desserts to share. We look forward to a great afternoon of food and fellowship together!
Sep 5 | Men’s Bible Study & Breakfast
The Men's Bible Study & Breakfast is a monthly event, held on the 1st Saturday of each month at 8:00 AM. This Bible study takes place at the church building, downstairs in the Fellowship Hall.
Get Involved
There Are A Lot Of Ways You Can Get Involved & Do The Work Of God In Our Community!
LIMITED-TIME OPPORTUNITIES:
REAL Ladies Host Needed
The REAL Ladies Bible Study is looking for volunteers to host our September gathering. Hosting is a wonderful opportunity to open your home or help coordinate an evening of fellowship, encouragement, and spiritual growth as we study God's Word together.
If you are willing to serve as a host or would like more information about what hosting involves, please let one of the REAL Ladies coordinators know. Your willingness to serve helps make this ministry possible and provides a welcoming environment where women can grow together in faith.
Thank you for considering this opportunity to encourage and strengthen your sisters in Christ. We appreciate your prayerful consideration and look forward to another season of meaningful Bible study and fellowship.
Food Pantry Donations
Throughout the month of August, we will be collecting Saltine Crackers and Cereal for our Food Pantry Ministry. Your donations help provide essential food items to individuals and families in our community. Thank you for your continued generosity and support of this important ministry.
Saltine Crackers
Cereal
WES Backpack Program Weekly Needs
We are quickly approaching our first week of providing backpack meal supplements for children at Westridge Elementary School. The Holly Hill Church of Christ family has faithfully embraced this ministry, and through your generosity, we have continued to meet the needs of children participating in the program.
Throughout the school year, we collect food each month to help provide weekend meal supplements for children experiencing food insecurity. Moving forward, a list of our most immediate needs will be shared each week through The Weekly Vine email and during Sunday announcements.
This Week’s Immediate Needs:
Beanie Weenies
Vienna Sausages
Ramen Noodles
A complete list of food items needed throughout the school year is available on the Ministry Wall. Members are encouraged to take a copy and keep it handy while grocery shopping.
Food donations may be placed in the Backpack Program donation basket in the hallway by the elevator. Monetary donations may be given directly to Steve or Jenny Jones, or you may place a check in the Sunday offering with “Backpack Program” written in the memo line.
We also welcome anyone who would like to become more involved with this important ministry. A volunteer sign-up sheet is located on the bulletin board in the foyer.
Thank you, Holly Hill, for your continued generosity and commitment to caring for children in our community. If you have any questions or would like additional information, please see Jenny or Steve Jones.
LONG-TERM OPPORTUNITIES:
Ministry Wall
Help us bring the Ministry Wall in our lobby to life! We invite all ministry leaders to share what their group has been up to and how the congregation can get involved.
If you'd like to get your ministry posted on the Ministry Wall in the lobby, please send answers to the following questions to the church office (office@hollyhillcoc.org) by the third Sunday of the month:
What has your ministry been up to since the last report?
What are your plans going forward?
How can the congregation get involved and help out?
Please also send in a picture or two if you have them. Matthew will get everything printed and posted by the first Sunday of the following month.
This is a wonderful, but not mandatory, opportunity to share your ministry's story with the congregation. Thank you all!
Mission Ministry
Check out the Kingdom work being done by the congregation we support in Güines, Cuba! We’re thankful for the opportunity to partner in sharing Christ’s love and advancing His Kingdom through this ministry.
Follow the link below to read the Mission Report for May & June and see how God is working through the efforts in Güines. Thank you for your continued prayers and support for this important mission work!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1feg6WV7ITp3EeaRJVoqFYRyawj90A5ZQ/view
Women’s Ministry Program
The ladies of Holly Hill have been hard at work serving others, strengthening relationships, and advancing God's Kingdom. From acts of service and outreach opportunities to encouragement and fellowship, their impact continues to make a difference both within our congregation and throughout the community.
Take a few moments to read the Women’s Ministry Program Q2 Report (Apr–Jun) and discover the many ways God is working through the ladies of Holly Hill. Read the report at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Fi2vHTBCDzDfPt2QCKTtSixo3g-a5zWD/view.
Tech Team Support
The Holly Hill Tech Team is in need of additional help! We are currently looking for a few more volunteers who would be willing to be trained to assist with setting up livestreams and audio equipment.
This is a fairly simple task, and you will receive thorough training before ever serving on your own. Whether you have prior experience or are completely new to the process, we would love for you to consider helping with this important ministry.
If you are interested or would like more information, please see David Jones, Brad Gregory, or Brad Proctor.
Meal Train & Potluck Ministry
The Holly Hill Meal Train & Potluck Ministry is available for those who would like to assist families in need by providing meals or contributing dishes for potluck gatherings. If you are interested in participating in this ministry, please contact Robin Mayes for additional information.
Youth Ministry
Holly Hill is beginning the process of searching for a Children and Youth Minister. The Evangelistic Committee — Scott Trent, David Jones, Tom Owens, Jeff Jones, and Robert Roach — would greatly appreciate your suggestions, recommendations, and input as we begin this important work.
Please keep this position, our congregation, and the search committee that will be formed in the coming days in your prayers. We ask for God’s guidance and wisdom throughout this process as we seek the right individual to serve and help lead our children and youth ministries.
Children’s Ministry
We’re looking for heroes within our congregation to step up and serve in our Children’s Bible Class ministry! Whether you’re interested in teaching or simply helping out, this is a wonderful opportunity to make a lasting impact at Holly Hill. If you feel called to be part of this important work, please speak with Mike Mayes, Scott Trent, or Robert Roach. We’d love to have you join the team!
Greeting Card Ministry
Every Sunday there are cards spread out on a table in the auditorium, right in front of the nursery window, which will be sent out to various church members and guests who need encouragement. You can help serve and encourage by making sure to sign these cards each week. If you know someone who would benefit from receiving a card from the church, please provide the name and address to Joyce Best. We will have “Get Well” cards, “Thinking of You” cards, “Praying For You” cards, and “Sympathy” cards.
Shriners Children’s Hospital
Donna White is collecting soda can tabs to donate to the Shriners Children’s Hospital. Please leave your donations in the lobby.
Subscribe To The Weekly Vine
The Weekly Vine is the newsletter of Holly Hill Church of Christ! If you would like to subscribe to The Weekly Vine, follow the link & sign up with your email address to receive the newsletter in your inbox.