Lift Up Your Eyes
“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.
Lift Up Your Eyes
By: Elijah Bell
Don’t you hate it when you have something in the oven and forget about it, and when you come back, it’s totally burnt? It’s all a waste! There’s a window of time in which you need to take it out of the oven, or it’s all for nothing. The same is true with farming. There is a certain window of time in which a crop is ready, and if the farmer doesn’t bring in the harvest, it all goes bad.
In John 4:27-42, Jesus talks about farming, and how it is time for harvest. He says “Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look on the fields, that they are white for harvest” (v. 35). But even though the disciples are presented with such a great crop that is ready, they are not focused on harvesting. They are distracted with other, earthly concerns (vv. 31-33).
The harvest in this case is not a physical harvest of grain, but a spiritual harvest of souls who are coming to Jesus. The woman at the well had gone into the village and brought the whole town out to learn about Jesus (vv. 28-30). They were eager. The crop was ready. But the disciples were focused on things that didn't matter.
I wonder how often we focus on things that don't matter while missing a great harvest right in front of us. At Holly Hill, we have “fields white for harvest” as well. We all should “list up our eyes!” Look at how many new faces, new opportunities, and growth we’ve had recently! What are we going to do with this blessing from God? Are we going to turn the other way and do nothing, letting the crop spoil, or will we join in the reaping?
This Sunday, October 18, we’ll read John 4:27-42, and notice three things that Jesus commands the disciples to do when they are presented with a great harvest. Join us for Bible class at 10:00 AM and worship at 11:00 AM, and be ready to “lift up your eyes” and see the harvest waiting for us! See you then!
News
This Section Is For Any Special Announcements That Are Not Upcoming Events Or Prayer Requests.
Birthday Card Shower For Jessie Tropoulos
On Tuesday, October 27, Jessie Tropoulos will celebrate a very special milestone—her 90th birthday!
Jessie’s daughters, Teresa and Lisa, are organizing a surprise birthday card shower to help make this occasion extra special. Everyone is invited to join in the celebration by sending Jessie a birthday card filled with warm wishes, encouragement, and love.
Birthday cards may be mailed to:
Jessie Tropoulos
661 Clover Drive
Frankfort, KY 40601
Please keep this a surprise! The family asks that no one mention the card shower to Jessie so she can enjoy receiving an unexpected outpouring of birthday wishes.
Thank you for helping Teresa and Lisa make Jessie's 90th birthday a memorable and joyful celebration!
Welcome To Holly Hill, Foister Family!
As we prepare to welcome Ethan Foister, our new Children and Youth Minister, along with his wife, Gabby, and daughter, Korra, to Holly Hill, we would like to help make their transition into the church apartment as welcoming and comfortable as possible. The Foister family will arrive in Frankfort on Monday, October 26.
To make the housewarming collection more efficient and avoid duplicate items, we will now be accepting monetary donations rather than individual household and pantry items. Several ladies have graciously volunteered to use the funds received to purchase needed items and stock the apartment before the Foister family arrives.
An acrylic collection box will be located on the round table in the foyer for monetary contributions. Members may also purchase gift cards to local restaurants and place them in the collection box. Those wishing to contribute by check may place a check in the offering plate with “Foister Family” written in the memo line.
Because time is needed to purchase the items and prepare the apartment before their arrival, the deadline for all contributions is Wednesday, October 21.
Thank you for your generosity and for helping us give Ethan, Gabby, and Korra a warm and thoughtful welcome to the Holly Hill family!
Cornerstone Club Begininng Nov 3rd
Hello all! We are excited to announce the beginning of the Holly Hill Cornerstone Club, a phone call-in discipleship class created to help Christians grow stronger in their faith and build their lives on the solid foundation of Jesus Christ. The class will be taught by David Richardson, Elijah Bell, and other men of the congregation.
Our first meeting will be November 3 at 7:00 PM Registration is required to participate, and those who register will receive the phone number and information needed to join the call.
To learn more about the Cornerstone Club and to register, please visit: hollyhillcoc.org/cornerstone-club.
Gift Card Collection For Baby Georgia
Beginning Sunday, October 25 through Wednesday, November 4, we will be collecting gift cards for Matthew and April Franklin as they welcome Baby Georgia.
A collection box will be available in the church foyer for anyone who would like to contribute and help show our love and support for the Franklin family during this special time.
Please continue to keep Matthew, April, Anna Marie, Baby Georgia, and the entire Blanton-Franklin family in your prayers.
Thank you, Holly Hill, for your continued love, generosity, and care for one another!
Oct 18 | Worship Duty Roster
C2W: Jeff Jones
Songs: Bradley Richardson
Prayer: Bruce Blanton
Lord’s Supper: Tom Roach
Scripture: Stefan Rudic
Oct 11 | Attendance & Contribution
Bible Class Attendance: 84
Worship Attendance: 138
Contribution: $5,699.00
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 Jones Family
Karri Fisher
Shirley Branham
The Sudduth & Stoops Family
Dorothy Lyons
McKenzie Craig
Judi Hutchinson
Sandy Appleman
Robin Ibershoff
ONGOING PRAYERS FOR: Mary Drury; Jeff Drury; Lynn Baker Kennedy; Lori Williams; Ernie & Judy Casey; 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; Robert Widener; Adam Ripperdan; 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; 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.
OCT - NOV 2026:
Oct 16 | Ladies Who Lunch
The Ladies Who Lunch will gather for their final luncheon of 2026 on Friday, October 16, at 11:30 AM at Office Pub & Deli.
Since the group will not meet during November, December, or January—and the February gathering will depend on the weather—this will be the last opportunity to enjoy Ladies Who Lunch this year.
The back room has been reserved for our group, so RSVPs are not necessary.
Oct 17 | North Lexington Ladies Inspiration Day
The ladies of Holly Hill are invited to attend the North Lexington Church of Christ Ladies’ Inspiration Day on Saturday, October 17, 2026. This year’s theme is “A Heavenly Perspective Transforms Every Season,” with Kristi Burleson serving as the guest speaker.
Registration and a continental breakfast will begin at 9:00 AM, followed by the program at 10:00 AM. Lunch will be provided following the program.
The event will be held at North Lexington Church of Christ, 2280 Hume Road, Lexington, KY. Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP by emailing secretary@northlexingtoncoc.org.
We encourage the ladies of Holly Hill to take advantage of this opportunity for a wonderful day of fellowship, encouragement, and spiritual inspiration.
Oct 17 | Summitt S.P.A.R.K. Miniature Golf
Summit Church of Christ invites area youth to join them for a fun-filled afternoon of miniature golf on Saturday, October 17, at 12:00 PM (Noon).
The outing will take place at Summit Church of Christ, located at 6015 Alexandria Pike, Cold Spring, KY.
This event is primarily intended for middle school and high school students; however, elementary school-aged children are also welcome to participate.
We encourage our young people to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to enjoy an afternoon of fun, fellowship, and friendship with other youth in Christ!
Oct 18 | Life Groups
Life Groups at Holly Hill are a wonderful opportunity to grow in faith, strengthen relationships, and enjoy meaningful fellowship with one another.
Life Groups meet on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month from September through May. Meeting times may vary by group.
For meeting times or additional information about Life Groups, please contact the church office at office@hollyhillcoc.org.
Oct 21 | Ladies Day Planning Meeting
A Ladies Day Planning Committee Meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at 5:15 PM, downstairs in the Fellowship Hall at Holly Hill Church of Christ.
All members of the Ladies Day Planning Committee are strongly encouraged to attend as we come together to discuss plans and preparations for the upcoming Ladies Day event. Your participation, ideas, and involvement are important to making this event a success.
For questions or additional information, please contact Cora Owens at (502) 545-1592 or email the church office at office@hollyhillcoc.org.
Thank you to everyone serving on the committee for your time, dedication, and willingness to help make this special event possible!
Oct 24 | Rolling Hills Ladies Day
The ladies of Rolling Hills Church of Christ invite you to join them for a special Ladies Day with Emily Hatfield on Saturday, October 24.
Registration and a continental breakfast will begin at 8:30 AM, with class beginning at 9:30 AM. This special day will focus on encouragement, equipping one another, and enjoying fellowship together as sisters in Christ. Lunch will be provided.
The event will be held at Rolling Hills Church of Christ, 125 Rolling Hills Drive, Mount Sterling, KY 40353.
Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP at https://www.canvaqr.com/RGP5fnxjkU. We hope you will make plans to attend this uplifting day of study, encouragement, and fellowship!
Oct 30 | Fall Festivities
Join us for an evening of Fall Festivities on Friday, October 30, from 6:00–8:00 PM at the Jones Family Farm, located at 4780 W Leestown Road, Midway, KY 40347. The festivities will take place at the Blue House on the farm.
Bring the whole family and enjoy an evening filled with good food, great company, and fall fun! Activities will include a fire pit and s’mores, chili cook-off contest, trunk-or-treating for the kids, hayrides, games, crafts, and more!
Please note that horror, gore, and scary costumes are not permitted at this gathering.
We hope you and your family will join us for a wonderful evening of fellowship and fall fun! For further information, please contact Kelsey Ross.
Nov 1 | Life Groups
Life Groups at Holly Hill are a wonderful opportunity to grow in faith, strengthen relationships, and enjoy meaningful fellowship with one another.
Life Groups meet on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month from September through May. Meeting times may vary by group.
For meeting times or additional information about Life Groups, please contact the church office at office@hollyhillcoc.org.
Nov 3 | Cornerstone Club
Hello all! We are excited to announce the beginning of the Holly Hill Cornerstone Club, a phone call-in discipleship class created to help Christians grow stronger in their faith and build their lives on the solid foundation of Jesus Christ. The class will be taught by David Richardson, Elijah Bell, and other men of the congregation.
Our first meeting will be November 3 at 7:00 PM Registration is required to participate, and those who register will receive the phone number and information needed to join the call.
To learn more about the Cornerstone Club and to register, please visit: hollyhillcoc.org/cornerstone-club.
Nov 7 | Men’s Bible Study & Breakfast
All men of Holly Hill Church of Christ are invited to join us for our monthly Men’s Bible Study & Breakfast on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 8:00 AM, downstairs in the Fellowship Hall.
Held on the first Saturday of each month, this gathering provides a wonderful opportunity for men to come together for Bible study, spiritual encouragement, fellowship, and a delicious breakfast.
We encourage all men of the congregation to attend and enjoy this meaningful time of growing together in faith and strengthening our bonds as brothers in Christ.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Nov 8 | Men’s Business Meeting
All men of the Holly Hill congregation are warmly invited and encouraged to attend our upcoming Men’s Business Meeting on Sunday, November 8, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the church building.
This gathering provides a wonderful opportunity to come together in fellowship, share ideas, discuss important matters concerning the congregation, and work together as we plan for the continued growth and service of the church.
Whether you regularly attend these meetings or have never participated before, we would love to have you join us! Your presence, thoughts, and involvement are important as we seek to strengthen our congregation and faithfully serve the Lord.
We hope to see you there!
Nov 8 | Women’s Ministry Program Quarterly Meeting
The Women's Ministry Program at Holly Hill Church of Christ will hold its Quarterly Meeting on Sunday, November 8, at 2:00 PM.
All ladies of the congregation are warmly invited and encouraged to attend as we come together to discuss upcoming activities, share ideas, and make plans for the continued growth and success of our Women's Ministry Program.
Your participation, input, and involvement are greatly valued as we work together to strengthen our fellowship, encourage one another, and serve both our congregation and community.
We look forward to seeing everyone and appreciate the continued dedication and support of the ladies of Holly Hill!
Nov 15 | Life Groups
Life Groups at Holly Hill are a wonderful opportunity to grow in faith, strengthen relationships, and enjoy meaningful fellowship with one another.
Life Groups meet on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month from September through May. Meeting times may vary by group.
For meeting times or additional information about Life Groups, please contact the church office at office@hollyhillcoc.org.
Get Involved
There Are A Lot Of Ways You Can Get Involved & Do The Work Of God In Our Community!
LIMITED-TIME OPPORTUNITIES:
First-Aid Room Donations
Holly Hill Church of Christ is seeking donations of essential medical supplies and comfort items to help equip our First-Aid Room and ensure we are prepared to assist those who may experience a medical need while attending services or church activities.
We are currently requesting the following items:
Digital O2 Sensor
Finger Tip Pulse Reader
Burn Treatment Kit
Triangle Sling (Large)
Glucose Monitor with Test Strips
Glucose Tablets
Blankets (Quantity: 2)
Cot
Pillows (Quantity: 2)
Towels (Quantity: 2)
Your generosity and willingness to contribute will help us create a safe, comfortable, and well-equipped space where we can provide assistance when needed.
Food Pantry Donations
Throughout the month of October, we will be collecting the following items for the Holly Hill Food Pantry:
Canned Chicken
Canned Tuna
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
Thank you for continuing to support the Westridge Elementary School Backpack Program as we help provide food for children in our community.
This week’s needed items are:
Tuna/Chicken Sandwich Kits
Shelf-Stable Milk
Fruit Cups
Applesauce
Cookie Packs
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 and makes a meaningful difference in the lives of local children and families.
For questions or additional information about the Backpack Program, please see Steve or Jenny Jones.
LONG-TERM OPPORTUNITIES:
Children’s Bible Class Ministry
Our Children’s Bible Class Ministry is looking for teachers and helpers who are willing to serve and help make a difference in the lives of our children.
Whether you are interested in teaching a class or assisting a teacher, your time and willingness to serve are greatly appreciated. This is a wonderful opportunity to encourage our children as they learn more about God and grow in their faith.
If you are interested in volunteering or would like additional information, please contact Scott Trent.
Thank you for considering how you can serve and support our Children’s Bible Class Ministry!
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
We invite you to take a few moments to read our July-August Mission Report and learn more about the Kingdom work being carried out in Güines, Cuba.
This report provides an encouraging look at the ongoing efforts to share the Gospel, strengthen the church, and serve the community. We are grateful for the faithful work taking place in Cuba and for the opportunity to support our brothers and sisters as they continue making disciples and advancing God’s Kingdom.
Please take time to read the report, pray for the work in Güines, and remember those who are faithfully serving there.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Rt8pbRDrDWmgklGc3EBb7DhzNK9jasPr/view?usp=drive_link
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.
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.
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