A Catholic you want to know: Dr. Dennis F. Holt

Spirit moves Holt as a praise and worship leader at St. Paul Church in Pocahontas

By Sarah Morris
Jonesboro Correspondent

Why you want to know Dennis: Dennis, a dentist in Pocahontas, is known throughout the Catholic charismatic community for providing praise and worship music during charismatic events. He and his wife Janet also support overseas ministries.

Parish: St. Paul

City: Pocahontas

Age: 65

Family: I have been married to my wife, Janet Baltz Holt, for 43 years. We have four children, Dr. Brent Holt, Denise Holt Dawson, Mark Holt and Luke Holt. We have nine grandchildren.

IN HIS OWN WORDS

Arkansas Catholic’s theme this year is “Worth It.” What investments of time or money have you made recently to enrich your faith?

I am constantly reading and researching as I grow deeper in my relationship with Jesus Christ. We have a weeknight study group that is now studying Matthew Kelley’s book, “Rediscovering Catholicism.” On another week night I teach a Scripture study group. I have also been active as praise and worship leader at our parish.

Why do you like being Catholic?

I love the Eucharist and the power it contains to change lives. I love the knowledge that is so readily available through the Word, the catechism and the writings of the saints.

What is the best thing about your parish?

The people. We are a true parish family. If you look up parish family in the dictionary you will see a picture of St. Paul’s (just kidding).

What do you do for an occupation?

I am a practicing dentist. This March I will have practiced 42 years.

What are your hobbies?

I love writing and studying the “things” of the Spirit. I also enjoy doing carpentry with my sons.

How has your faith affected you at work or in your hobbies?

There is a word in Hebrew, “avodah.” It means we are the same in work, worship and study. I like to think that this word directs my life. St. Paul’s letter to the Corinthians challenges me to be an ambassador of Christ and his kingdom. I take this ambassadorship very seriously. All my books (even the novels) are written to promote the Kingdom of God. I try to do the same in all I do.

You are well known in the charismatic community. When and how were you introduced to this community?

Over 30 years ago, very close friends of ours, Bernie and Eva Baltz invited us to a charismatic prayer meeting. There, both Janet and I came face to face with the precious Holy Spirit. As the song goes, “Oh What A Night!”

When did you begin attending the annual charismatic conference?

It was in the mid-1990s when they had it in Fort Smith. Then it was in Springdale and now in Little Rock. We have missed only one conference since that time.

Why do you enjoy attending?

My relationship with my heavenly Father is the most exciting part of my life. At the conference I get to express my excitement with 500 other Catholics who are not afraid to show their love and reverence for Jesus Christ. The Lord says to let the shout of victory be in the camp. At the conference we have victory and that atmosphere is life changing.

How has your involvement in the charismatic community impacted your life?

It is my life. I quickly realized that nothing happens on this earth from the spiritual realm except through the Holy Spirit. That truth caused me to seek the Holy Spirit with all my heart and now he is my best friend. I love talking to him and availing myself to his wisdom — unbelievable.

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