Check Out Hollis Thomas’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Hollis Thomas

Hi Hollis, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Hollis Thomas, affectionately known as “PHT,” is a dynamic communicator, creative leader, and pastor with a heart for community and discipleship. After relocating from Birmingham, AL, to Nashville, TN, Pastor Hollis and his family quickly embraced their new home and felt a strong calling to build a community where people could deepen their faith, discover their purpose, and form lasting relationships. In January 2024, they launched One City Church, which has grown rapidly, reaching over 1,000 members within its first year.

Pastor Hollis is recognized for his ability to present the truth of God’s Word in a way that is both practical and culturally relevant, reaching individuals across various ages, races, and backgrounds. His passion lies in growing a new generation of believers through innovative methods that engage and equip people to live out God’s calling on their lives. One City Church, under his leadership, has become a place of radical transformation, discipleship, and empowerment.

Pastor Hollis attended Miles College, where he studied Public Relations. While there, he became a member of the Gamma Kappa Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and met his wife, Elise, a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Together, they are raising three children: Ava Marie (10), Allison (4), and Deuce (1).

Under Pastor Hollis’ leadership, One City Church has quickly become
a place of radical transformation and passionate discipleship, where
people are empowered to become all that God has called them to
be. Pastor Hollis is committed to making a difference in Nashville, and One City Church is actively involved in the community, partnering with local organizations like McGavock High School, Metro Nashville Public Schools, Habitat for Humanity, Awake Nashville, Give One Foundation, and many others. Through these partnerships, the church is making a tangible impact on the city, helping to meet the needs of its residents and creating opportunities for growth and transformation.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Like any church or ministry, Pastor Hollis Thomas and One City Church have faced their share of obstacles and challenges, particularly in the early stages of establishing and growing. Growing quickly is exciting, but it requires balancing the church’s growth with maintaining the close-knit, personal atmosphere that makes it special and defines the church’s culture.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Pastor Hollis Thomas has expanded his impact by preaching at various conferences, sharing his message on radio stations, and appearing on podcasts. Through these platforms, he reaches a broader audience, offering encouragement, teaching, and inspiration to people beyond his local congregation, while also spreading the mission and vision of One City Church.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.theonecity.org/
• LinkedIn: https://linktr.ee/weareonecity
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeAreOneCity
• Other: https://n0at1fwihh9.typeform.com/to/JwgRrDpq