Spending his freshman year at St. Andrews Presbyterian College, Holton attended the 203rd General Assembly of the PC (USA) where he served as the co-moderator of the Youth Advisory Delegates (YADS). After transferring to Clemson University, a fact which resulted in his blood running a slightly different shade of orange than that of Tennessee, and while participating in a Presbyterian Student Association Beach Retreat, Holton met his wife Martha Ann.  Holton thought Martha Ann was pretty amazing when, having been paired with her for kitchen duty, she fulfilled their joint responsibilities before he could even report for duty.  As it turned out, Martha Ann simply didn’t want to get stuck in the kitchen with him because he was so intense and physically active.  With tongue in cheek, Holton has been heard to say, “Now, that’s divine intervention!”

One week after graduation from college Holton and Martha Ann were married.  The following week they moved to New Jersey where Holton began his studies at Princeton Theological Seminary.  He put his high energy to good use by serving as the Athletic Director, coordinating the intramural sports program.  He fulfilled two internships: one at the Flemington Presbyterian Church and the other at the Presbyterian Church at Westfield.  He also fulfilled his Clinical Pastoral Education at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, located in Philadelphia.  Upon graduation from PTS Holton was called to serve at the First Presbyterian Church in Spartanburg, SC, as well as churches in both Marion, SC, and Fernandina Beach, Florida.

In 2007 Holton earned his Doctor of Ministry Degree from Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, Georgia.  His continuing education has come in a variety of forms, including Presbytery sponsored events, Princeton and Youth Specialties conferences, as well as two Pulpit Exchanges with sister churches in Scotland.  Through the years Holton has also enjoyed leading continuing education events, though he will tell you that most of the time he prefers the role of student.  His most recent service to the greater church has been with the Committee on Ministry, though he has also enjoyed his past work as a member of the Committee for Preparation for Ministry.  His involvement in the community has included serving on such local boards as Habitat for Humanity and the Barnabas Center.  Enjoying his work as a Rotarian, he is a Past President and Paul Harris Fellow.

Martha Ann and Holton have three children: Harrison, Will, and Mary Caroline.  It was Holton’s distinct pleasure to preside at the Baptism of all three of his children.  In his spare time Holton can be found spending time with his family.  He is an avid runner and participates in some rather crazy “off-brand” types of races from time to time.  Holton is hydro- and solar-powered and is happiest when he is both on the water and in the sun!  Some of his great pastoral joys include recognizing and celebrating the blessings of God, walking alongside people in their Christian journey, studying God’s Word while preaching it with gusto, and maximizing people’s gifts for Christ’s service.

Statement of Faith                     Journey of Faith