Take Up Your Cross
“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
Sermon Preview
A Short Message To Get You Excited For Sunday’s Worship Service.
Take Up Your Cross
By: Elijah Bell
A few months back when my family was at the Creation Museum near Cincinnati, while I was looking closely at an exhibit on the differences between Biblical and atheistic worldviews, I saw, tucked into a corner, a tiny silicon Jesus wearing a white robe and a red sash. It was obviously placed there by a well-meaning Christian, hoping someone would find it, pick it up, and put it in their pocket. The meaning? “Everyone needs a little Jesus.” Get it? A...little Jesus?
After that day, I started seeing those little Jesuses everywhere, both literally and metaphorically. People love the idea of a tiny Jesus they can keep in their pocket, because a tiny Jesus is safe. A tiny Jesus doesn’t contradict you. A tiny Jesus doesn’t demand repentance. A tiny Jesus doesn’t call you to sacrifice. A tiny Jesus fits in your pocket, meaning you control when He appears. It’s comforting because we can shrink Jesus down until He fits comfortably into our lifestyle, preferences, and boundaries.
This is how many people view Jesus. They often keep a tiny, comforting version of Him tucked away, ready to bring out when it’s convenient, or when they need something of Him, but that they can put away again when things are going well or when they are challenged to change. But that’s not who Jesus is. You can’t minimize Him or His Kingdom down to a tiny silicon talisman that comes out only when it suits you.
In Mark 8, the disciples were treating Jesus just this way. When Jesus reveals the true nature of His Kingdom—rejection, suffering, and death (Mark 8:31)—Peter takes him aside to rebuke Him (Mark 8:32). Surely, Jesus’ Kingdom isn’t about suffering or sacrifice. He’s supposed to be the one who sets us free from all those things! He’s supposed to be the tiny, comforting figure we take out when things don’t go our way.
But Jesus teaches something different: following Him is not about what we get out of it, it’s about what we are willing to give up. Following Jesus is about denying self, taking up our crosses, and following Him on the way to Golgotha (Mark 8:34).
Join us this Sunday, September 6, as we study Mark 8:27-38 we will learn to embrace Jesus’ identity, Jesus’ mission, and Jesus’ calling. We hope to see you there as we learn to put back the tiny Jesus, and take up our cross to follow the King-sized Christ instead.
News
This Section Is For Any Special Announcements That Are Not Upcoming Events Or Prayer Requests.
Praise Report
Dear Brothers & Sisters,
I am writing this with a heart overflowing with gratitude. Just two short weeks ago, I reached out to share my need, and the outpouring of love and support I have received since then has been nothing short of God’s grace in action. Because of your incredible kindness and generosity, a tremendous weight has been lifted, allowing me to finally focus with peace and clarity on the final stretch of my studies in Frankfort. Walking alongside this church family has shown me what the body of Christ truly looks like. Through your open hearts and encouragement, I have experienced the strength of fellowship when I needed it most. In moments of uncertainty and strain, your care has been the balm of comfort to my spirit. Gathering with you every week reminds me of the privilege of worship, anchoring my mind on God’s goodness, while seeing your hands and feet at work continues to teach me the joy of service. Thank you for welcoming me, praying for me, and standing by me so tangibly. May God replenish and bless this congregation abundantly for every seed of love you have planted in my life.
With Deep Gratitude & Love,
Godswill Ujah
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!
Sep 6 | Worship Duty Roster
C2W: Mike Mayes
Songs: David Jones
Prayer: Robert Roach
Lord’s Supper: Tom Roach
Scripture: Brad Gregory
Sep 13 | Worship Duty Roster
C2W: David Richardson
Songs: Tom Owens
Prayer: Ricky Drawbaugh Sr.
Lord’s Supper: Jeff Jones
Scripture: Stefan Rudic
Aug 30 | Attendance & Contribution
Bible Class Attendance: 74
Worship Attendance: 147
Contribution: $5,439.00
Prayers
Here Are Some Individuals That Especially Need Our Prayers This Week. Please Keep Them In Mind Every Time You Pray.
NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:
The Family of Jerry Duncan
Judy & Ernie Casey
Lynn Baker Kennedy
Lori Williams
ONGOING PRAYERS FOR: Brenda Perkins; David Sorrell; Pearl Burdette; Rick Hanks; Frank Staley; Raina Wise; Caleb Baker; Amanda Friend; 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; Jerry Mayes; Helen Hall; Michael Warner; The Sudduth & Proctor Family; Robert Widener; 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.
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.
Sep 6 | Life Groups
Life Groups are a wonderful opportunity to grow in faith, strengthen relationships, and enjoy meaningful fellowship with our church family.
Our Life Groups meet on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month from September through May. We encourage everyone to get involved and take advantage of this opportunity to connect with one another outside of our regular worship and Bible class times.
Whether you have participated in a Life Group before or are considering joining for the first time, we hope you will make plans to be a part of this important ministry at Holly Hill!
Sep 13 | Young Folks Hangout At Gallrein Farms
All young adults are invited to join us for our next Young Folks Hangout on Sunday, September 13, immediately following worship!
We’ll be heading to Gallrein’s Farm, 1029 Vigo Road, Shelbyville, KY 40065, for a fun afternoon celebrating the beginning of fall. Come enjoy sunflower picking, activities, food trucks, and fellowship together!
Unlimited Activities Bracelets are $15, or $12 for parents, and include train rides, slides, jump pillows, pedal carts, and more.
For those interested in sunflower picking, three vase options are available:
Mason Jar — $16
Medium Tin — $25
Large Tin — $35
Make plans to join us for a great afternoon at Gallrein’s Farm as we enjoy the fall season and spend time together. We hope to see you there!
Sep 13-16 | Elizabethtown Church of Christ Fall Gospel Meeting
You are invited to join the Elizabethtown Church of Christ for a special Fall Gospel Meeting with Robert Hatfield, September 13–16, 2026. Centered around the theme “Jesus Is Why,” this series will encourage us to reflect on our love for Christ, our responsibility to share the Gospel, the blessing of forgiveness, the call to decrease so Christ may increase, and the importance of remaining faithful.
The meeting schedule is as follows:
Sunday, September 13
9:30 AM — Bible Class
10:30 AM — Worship
6:00 PM — Evening Worship
Monday, September 14
7:00 PM — Gospel Meeting
Tuesday , September 15
7:00 PM — Gospel Meeting
Wednesday, September 16
7:00 PM — Gospel Meeting
The Elizabethtown Church of Christ is located at 1211 N. Dixie Avenue, Elizabethtown, KY 42701. For additional information, please call 270-765-6446.
Everyone is encouraged to make plans to attend this uplifting Gospel meeting and take advantage of this opportunity for worship, fellowship, and spiritual encouragement.
Sep 19 | Elder & Deacon Workshop
Elders, deacons, ministers, and all who desire to grow as servant leaders in the church are invited to attend an Elder & Deacon Workshop on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at the Richmond Church of Christ, 1500 Lancaster Road, Richmond, KY 40475. The workshop will be led by Jeff and Dale Jenkins of The Jenkins Institute, who bring decades of ministry, preaching, teaching, and church leadership experience.
Jeff Jenkins
Jeff is a graduate of Freed-Hardeman University and has completed additional graduate work at several institutions. He has written for numerous Christian publications and is actively involved in gospel meetings, leadership seminars, and teaching opportunities across the country.
He currently serves full-time with The Jenkins Institute, which he co-founded with his brother Dale in honor of their father, longtime preacher Jerry Jenkins. Through this work, Jeff focuses on encouraging preachers elders, and church leaders through conferences, mentoring, and practical ministry resources.
Jeff is the father of two children and a proud grandfather. He has a deep love for the church and a strong commitment to helping leaders remain faithful, encouraged, and effective in their work for the Lord.
Dale Jenkins
Dale Jenkins has spent over four decades preaching the gospel and working with congregations across Alabama and Tennessee. For more than 15 years, he served as the minister at the Spring Meadows Church of Christ in Spring Hill, where he helped guide a growing and active congregation. Before that, he worked with churches in Nashville and Hamilton, Alabama, building a reputation as a steady and encouraging voice for both ministers and church leaders.
Dale has a deep love for preaching and for strengthening the church. Over the years, he has spoken in countless gospel meetings, lectureships, and leadership events, both across the country and internationally. He has also written or edited many books and hundreds of articles, always with a focus on helping others better understand Scripture and serve faithfully in their roles.
Today, Dale works alongside his brother Jeff through The Jenkins Institute, a ministry they founded in honor of their father. Through seminars, mentoring, conferences, and practical resources, they devote their time to encouraging preachers, elders, and congregations in their work. Their goal is simple: to strengthen those who are serving and to help churches grow stronger and healthier.
Dale and his wife Melanie have been married for many years and are thankful for their family, including two sons who are also involved in ministry. While he is grateful for the opportunities he has had to speak and write, Dale's greatest passion remains helping people grow closer to Christ and helping churches stay focused on the work God has given them to do.
Saturday, September 19
9:00 - 9:10 AM | Welcome & Prayer
9:10 - 9:40 AM | Shepherding Tips: Moving From Management To Shepherding
9:40 - 10:10 AM | 10 Habits Of Shepherds Who Want To Train Future Shepherds
10:10 - 10:40 AM | Elder/Minister Relations
10:40 - 10:55 AM | Break
10:55 - 11:25 AM | It's The Little Things - What Are Things An Eldership Can Do To Connect With The Congregation
11:25 - 11:55 AM | Things That Hurt An Eldership
11:55 AM - 12:25 PM | How Do We Keep Our Young People?
12:30 - 1:15 PM | Lunch
1:15 - 1:45 PM | Planning Meaningful Worship Times
1:45 - 2:15 PM | How Can We Help Our People Become More Outreach Oriented?
2:15 - 2:30 PM | Break
2:30 - 3:00 PM | Vision, Mission, & Strategy
3:00 - 3:30 PM | Wrap-Up, Q&A, & Prayer
Sep 20 | Life Groups
Life Groups are a wonderful opportunity to grow in faith, strengthen relationships, and enjoy meaningful fellowship with our church family.
Our Life Groups meet on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month from September through May. We encourage everyone to get involved and take advantage of this opportunity to connect with one another outside of our regular worship and Bible class times.
Whether you have participated in a Life Group before or are considering joining for the first time, we hope you will make plans to be a part of this important ministry at Holly Hill!
Oct 4-7 | Lawrenceburg Church of Christ Gospel Meeting
The Lawrenceburg Church of Christ (558 S Main Street, Lawrenceburg, KY 40342) invites everyone to attend a special Gospel Meeting, October 4–7, 2026, centered around the theme “Look for the Good.”
Guest speaker Bart Warren, from the South Green Street Church of Christ in Glasgow, Kentucky, will present a series of encouraging lessons throughout the meeting.
The schedule is as follows:
Sunday, October 4
10:00 AM — “It Matters What We See”
11:00 AM — “Look for the Good in the Church”
12:00 PM — Potluck Meal
6:00 PM — “Look for the Good in Each Other”
Monday, October 5
7:00 PM — “Look for the Good in the Day to Day”
Tuesday, October 6
7:00 PM — “Look for the Good in Our Suffering”
Wednesday, October 7
7:00 PM — “Seeing Hope”
Everyone is warmly invited to attend and be encouraged by this special series of gospel messages. For additional information, please contact Burt Paden at (502) 839-4135.
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.
September Food Pantry Donations
Throughout the month of September, we will be collecting the following items for the Holly Hill Food Pantry:
Canned Ravioli
Canned Chicken Noodle Soup
We encourage everyone to help us keep our Food Pantry well stocked as we continue serving individuals and families in need within our community.
Thank you for your continued generosity and support of this important ministry!
WES Backpack Program Weekly Needs
During an upcoming Mission Moment, Steve Jones will share more information about the Westridge Elementary School Backpack Program and how this ministry helps provide food for children in our community.
This week’s needed items are:
Capri Sun & Kool-Aid Drink Pouches
Shelf-Stable Milk
Jell-O & Pudding Cups
Mac-n-Cheese Microwavable Cups
Popcorn
Pop-Tarts
Food donations may be placed in the Backpack Program donation basket located in the hallway by the elevator.
Those wishing to make a monetary contribution may give directly to Steve or Jenny Jones or place a check in the Sunday offering with “Backpack Program” written in the memo line.
Thank you, Holly Hill, for your continued generosity and commitment to caring for children in our community. Your support helps make this important ministry possible.
For questions or additional information about the Backpack Program, please see Steve or Jenny 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.