After 46 years of dedicated service to Born Again Church in Nashville, Tennessee, Bishop
Horace E. Hockett, founding pastor, has announced his retirement. There will be a weekend of celebratory events, including a family service on Friday, August 9, featuring recording artist Darwin Hobbs. There will also be a gala at the Franklin Cool Springs Marriott on August 10, featuring recording artist Doe and Pastor James Lowe of Bethel World Outreach Church in Franklin, Tennessee, culminating on August 11 with the installation of his son, Pastor Brian Lee Hockett, as his successor. Performers will include Beverly Crawford, Billy Gaines and the Born Again Church Celebration Choir. The theme is “Holiness, Excellence, Humility and the Word of God… a legacy that lives on.”
On August 8, 1978, Bishop Hockett and seven others held the first service of Born Again Church in the living room of Elder Fred and Mother Fannie Waters. Elder Waters served as overseer and representative for Hockett until he could be officially recognized by their church organization. The inspiration for the name “Born Again” came from Mother Waters, the mother of Lady Kiwanis Hockett.
In 1979, Horace Hockett and his twin brother Harold Hockett were officially ordained as elders and Hockett was appointed pastor of Born Again Church. His brother became assistant pastor and his wife Lady Kiwanis became associate pastor.
Since then, Born Again has reached thousands worldwide; multigenerational congregants, in person and online. Hockett’s service is characterized by unwavering
Commitment, excellent leadership, a spirit of humility and a deep devotion to the
Ministry of Born Again Church by “making the Word clear.” During his years of ministry, he has left an indelible mark by leading the church through various challenges and triumphs, paving the way for future success.
The announcement of Bishop Hockett’s retirement marks the beginning of a new chapter in his life that will no doubt be filled with new opportunities and experiences. He will focus on his passions, the Living Parables Drama Ministry, which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary of producing dramas and plays, and the Northside Theatrical Conservatory, which was established to teach and train youth and teens in the performing arts. He will also oversee the Kingdom Builder’s Network, a consortium of 23 churches and congregations in several states, as well as the new development of Northview, a 252-unit active senior living community scheduled for completion in 2027.
Joining him in this journey is his wife of 50 years, Associate Pastor Lady Kiwanis Hockett, who has been a tireless support and encouragement throughout his tenure; his daughter-in-law, Rachel Hockett, who will serve as senior assistant pastor; his eldest son, Elder Horace E. Hockett II and his wife, LaTonya; his grandchildren, Olivia and Briley; and a congregation of loyal members, community supporters, family and friends.
