How do these 3 ministries work together?
We often receive questions like: How do The Rock Church, Holston Home for Children, and Iris Greeneville work together? Are they the same organization? Which of these organizations is responsible for different activities or ministries that interface with The Rock Church?
Below, we will do our best to explain the difference between these three unique but cooperating organizations, what they are responsible for, how each are uniquely governed, and how they work together for the sake of God’s kingdom.
Below, we will do our best to explain the difference between these three unique but cooperating organizations, what they are responsible for, how each are uniquely governed, and how they work together for the sake of God’s kingdom.

The Rock Church
Founded in 2019
In 2019, The Rock Church was built by Holston Home for Children as a church for its resident youth. As the Lord began to move and bring more people from around the country as well as the local community, a community church was birthed. Today we are a church that carries a heart for passionate worship, radical obedience, regular communion, sharing the gospel, discipling others and being discipled, serving others, exercising spiritual gifts, and simple gatherings.
Government
The Rock Church Elders give leadership to the church as it pertains to the spiritual life of the church body, its doctrine, and its ministries. The Rock Church Staff and Deacons are part of our serve team—the Staff oversee specific areas of ministry within the church, and the Deacons assist the elders by meeting practical needs within the church body.
Ministries
The Rock Church Ministries include:
- Small Groups
- Children’s Ministry
- Youth Ministry
- Worship Team
- Branches Foster Care Ministry
- Food Truck Ministry
- Jail Ministry

Holston Home for Children
Founded in 1895
Holston Home for Children was founded in 1895 when Mrs. E.E. Wiley, a widow, took in her first homeless child. Since that humble beginning, Holston Home has strived to follow biblical teaching to provide hope and healing for a brighter future by sharing the love of Jesus with children and families struggling with life's challenges. Over the past 130+ years, Holston has helped thousands of children and their families.
Government
Holston Home for Children is led by Bradley Williams, President, and governed by its Board of Trustees.
Ministries
Holston Home for Children Ministries include:
- Residential Care for Youth
- Christian Foster Care — Branching Out
- Private Christian School — River Academy
- Early Childcare Centers — The Children’s Center and Small Miracles
- Day Program for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities — Hope & Thrive Academy
- Women’s Residential Addiction Treatment — Recovering Hearts
- Women’s Transitional Living — The Garden
- Young Adult Independent Living — Brumit Center

Iris Greeneville
Founded in 2020
Iris Greeneville gives expression to the values of Iris Global right here in Appalachia. You may find them serving in our local jails, homes, rehabs, or wherever else brokenness is found. Their longing to passionately worship Jesus and radically obey Him has led them to launch the ministries below in obedience to Him.
Government
Iris Greeneville is led by Abel and Nicole Carrico and its Board of Directors.
Ministries
The Iris Greeneville Ministries include:
- Mountain People Worship
- Men’s Residential Addiction Treatment — Mountain People Recovery
- Partner in Harvest School Smoky Mountains
