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 worship night Friday, Aug. 9 featuring recording artist Darwin Hobbs. In addition, there will be a gala at the Franklin Cool Springs Marriott featuring recording artist Doe and Pastor James Lowe of Bethel World Outreach Church in Franklin, Tenn. on Aug. 10 culminating with the installation ceremony of his son, Pastor Brian Lee Hockett, as his successor on Aug. 11. Beverly Crawford, Billy Gaines and the Born Again Church Celebration Choir will be the featured artists. The theme is “Holiness, Excellence, Humility, and the Word of God…a Legacy Continues.”
On Aug. 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 covering for Hockett until he could be officially recognized by their church organization. The inspiration for the name “Born Again” came from Mother Waters, mother of Lady Kiwanis Hockett.
In 1979, Horace Hockett and his twin brother, Harold Hockett, were officially ordained as Elders and Hockett was installed as pastor of Born Again Church. His brother would become the assistant pastor and his wife, Lady Kiwanis, would become the associate pastor.
Since then, Born Again has reached thousands worldwide; in-person and online multigenerational congregants. Hockett’s service has been characterized by unwavering
commitment, excellence in leadership, a spirit of humility and a profound dedication to the
ministry of Born Again Church in “making the Word plain.” Throughout his years of service, he has left an indelible mark, guiding the church through various challenges, successes and preparing the way for future success.
The announcement of Bishop Hockett’s retirement signifies the beginning of a new chapter in his life journey, one that will undoubtedly be filled with new opportunities and experiences. He will focus on his passions of the Living Parables Drama Ministry, which recently celebrated 50 years of producing dramas and plays as well as The Northside Theatrical Conservatory, 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 ministries in several states, and the new development of Northview, a 252-unit active senior living residence set to be completed in 2027.
Alongside him on this journey is his wife of 50 years, Associate Pastor Lady Kiwanis Hockett, who has been a steadfast source of support and encouragement throughout his ministry. Also supporting him are his daughter-in-law, Rachel Hockett, who will service as senior associate pastor; his oldest son, Senior Elder Horace E. Hockett II and his wife LaTonya; grandchildren, Olivia and Briley; and a congregation of faithful members, community supporters, family and friends.
