James Holston
OCHP, Campus Pastor
Pastor Holston is the Campus Pastor of One Church @ Harvest Point and also serves as the connect group lead for Chess Mates
At One Church @ Harvest Point, we believe spiritual growth happens best in community. Chess Mates is a Connect Group that brings boys and men (ages 9+) together to be discipled in Christ while learning and playing the game of chess. In a welcoming, intergenerational environment, participants build one another up in fellowship, godliness, and accountability as they explore what it means to be men of God at home, at work, and in the community.
How Chess Mates Serves Our Community
Chess Mates creates intentional space for Jesus-centered discipleship and missional living. This ministry brings men and young men together to grow in fellowship, godliness, and accountability. Through the strategy of chess, participants engage in meaningful conversations about what it means to be a man of God in various contexts of life.
What Makes Chess Mates Unique
- God-Centered Worship: Each gathering centers on biblical truth and character formation, applying God’s Word to real-life decisions—on and off the board.
- Family Focus: Fathers, mentors, sons, and young men learn side-by-side, strengthening bonds across generations.
- Missional Living: The group welcomes believers and those exploring faith, creating space to ask honest questions and grow together in Christlikeness.
- Prayer Empowered: Time is given to pray for wisdom, self-control, and integrity—virtues that shape both spiritual life and gameplay.
- Radical Generosity: Leaders freely share time, skills, and encouragement so every participant can learn, belong, and thrive.
- Intentional Hospitality: A warm, safe environment ensures newcomers feel seen, connected, and invited to take the next step.
What Participants Can Expect
Chess Mates fosters connection and community by teaching and playing chess while discussing biblical manhood and godly character. Participants learn and play in a supportive setting that values progress over perfection, engage in clear discussions about faith in everyday contexts, and grow in patience, strategy, and self-discipline aligned with spiritual maturity.
One leader shared: “My favorite part of serving is seeing the relationships being built and men supporting one another.”
The Impact on Our Community
Chess Mates provides space for men to come together—believers and unbelievers alike—building fellowship and being challenged by the Word of God to grow stronger as men, according to God’s Word.
Who It’s For
Boys and men, ages 9 and up. Beginners and experienced players are welcome.
Take Your Next Step
Ready to make your move?