Transition
Announcement

Bishop Dr. Brian Sutton, general presbyter of North America released the following transition on Tuesday, July 11, 2023:

After an extensive time of prayer and seeking, and in consultation with the Presiding Bishop, General Presbyters, and North America Council, it is with great excitement I share the forthcoming appointment of Bishop Paul Holt as State Bishop of Tennessee, effective September 1, 2023.

For the last 13 years, Bishop Holt has served as the Executive Director of Finance & Administration for the Church of God of Prophecy worldwide. At the International Offices, he has also served as the Heritage Ministries Director, Corporate Board member, Executive Committee member, Stewardship Ministries Coordinator, Assembly Task Force Chairman and Global Missions Committee Chairman. Bishop Holt was born and raised in Tennessee serving in various positions in his local church before planting a church in East Tennessee. As an appointee in Tennessee, he served as a member of the Marriage Enrichment Board, the State Finance & Stewardship Committee, the Ministerial Review Board, TCBL Instructor, Youth Camp Director, State Men’s Ministries Director, and Area Presbyter. Before transitioning to the International Offices in 2007, he served as a lead pastor for almost 20 years with pastorates in Rogersville, Knoxville, and Cleveland TN. As a minister in Tennessee, he was privileged to work with State Bishops Eugene Weakley, Wayne Hall, and EC McKinley.

Bishop Holt has earned an AS in business from Tomlinson College, a BS in leadership from Johnson University, and an MBA from Bryan College.

Bishop Holt and his wife Barbara have been married for 38 years. They have two sons and seven grandchildren. The Holts recently co-authored their first book, The Goldfish Principle. Barbara, who is passionate about prayer and Bible study, recently wrote a study on the book of Job that will be published soon. The Holts attend church at Keith Street Ministries in Cleveland, TN.

In this transition we say a special thank you for the ministry of retiring Bishop E.C. and Sister Debra McKinley, who have served the state of Tennessee the past 19 years. Their unwavering love for God and people has been evident as they have selflessly labored in Tennessee. The McKinleys will remain in the state of Tennessee and active in ministry.

We welcome the Holts to our North America leadership team!