About the Highlands Congregation

The Highlands Church of Christ is a special place indeed. It is composed of folks who have found a joyful relationship with Christ -- one that is worth talking about to others. As disciples, however, we understand that it is far more than a “topic of conversation;” it must be our way of life and must be evident to those around us. We strive to show our love for the Lord by loving one another. We understand from God’s word that we are the body of Christ, the family of God, the holy nation. This church is a place where people -- all people -- are loved, sin is confronted, needs are met, and everyone is welcome.

Highlands' Mission:

Our mission is: “To bring people to God and His family through Jesus Christ, equipping them with the Word of God, to do God’s will and work through the community and the world daily, to the glory and praise of God.” Our theology is conservative, our methodology progressive.

Highlands has always placed a strong emphasis on families and children. The ladies have a strong ministry group; the men have special retreats and planning sessions as well as other group activities. We have a strong, biblically based educational program and Youth & Children’s ministries.

Highlands' History

The congregation began in June 1978 in an effort to serve the Southeast Lakeland community. With about 55 in attendance, the first services were held at Scott Lake Elementary school. The church continued to meet at this location until property was obtained along Lakeland Highlands Road and a building was completed on August 3, 1980.

On October 29, 1981 the church building burned. As the ashes smoldered, the body gathered at the site to sing and pray -- characteristic of the spirit of these disciples. In June 1982, a new and larger building was completed. The new facility was expanded for future growth, especially with additional classrooms and fellowship area.

From its inception this church has been committed to reaching out to others and building up the Lord’s church in Central Florida. We have supported the Christian Home and Bible School work in Mount Dora and the Central Florida Bible Camp in Eustis from the beginning. For several years Highlands has supported the work of Eastern European Mission, a translation and printing ministry supporting evangalism throughout the countries of the former Soviet Union. Following direct involvement with hurricane relief efforts in 2004, Highlands began regular support of the the Churches of Christ Disaster Relief ministry based in Nashville, Tennessee. Recently the congregation began support of "The Flying Preacher" and outreach efforts to all islands of the Bahamas. The church has cooperated in many worthwhile endeavors over the years, including the Spiritual Growth Workshop in Orlando, and C.Y.F. -- a Christian Youth Fellowship among the churches of Christ in the Central Florida area.

Ministers who have served this church are: Ronald Hasten, Ronnie Norman, Rick Overturf, Larry Sawyer, Brad Small, Alex Clayton. Youth, Educational, and/or Family ministers include the following: Rick Overturf, Greg Hoogerwerf, Chuck Irwin, Larry Cline, and Phil Cannon.

Highlands' Today:

Highlands continues to be a loving group of Christians, actively supporting each other and the Lord's work throughout central Florida. Current full time ministers serving at Highlands are Randal Myers and Tony Griffies.

We invite you to visit us at any of our services -- Sunday morning Bible classes followed by our congregational worship, Sunday evening (varied study and activities) or Wednesday evening Bible classes. Experience first-hand the fellowship that awaits.

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