The executive board of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention approved a recommendation from the ABSC operating committee on Thursday, Nov. 10, to name Rex Horne ABSC interim executive director.
The decision follows current ABSC Executive Director J.D. “Sonny” Tucker’s announcement that he will retire effective Dec. 31.
“I am indebted to Arkansas Baptists for their impact upon me from childhood to this present day,” Horne said. “I pray my life and ministry experience will encourage the convention staff, churches and pastors in these coming months.”
Proven leader
Growing up in Camden, Horne understands the importance of Arkansas Baptist ministry. Horne served as pastor of Immanuel Baptist Church in Little Rock from 1990-2006, president of Ouachita Baptist University from 2006-2015 and president of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention from 1996-1997. Additionally, Horne was a trustee for OBU and a board member for Baptist Health.
“The Executive Board’s decision to call Rex Horne as interim executive director is indeed a great day for Arkansas. Rex is a statesman, a proven leader and deeply loves the work of Arkansas Baptists. His stability, servant leadership and gracious spirit will be a blessing to our great state,” Tucker said.
Horne will begin his work with the convention on Dec. 1.
“We all felt he was the man to present to the Board if God led him to consider the position,” said Manley Beasley, Jr., the outgoing chairman of the ABSC operating committee.
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was written by Ethan Dial and originally published by the Arkansas Baptist News, news service of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention.
