FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 27, 2022

COLUMBIA – South Carolina Baptist Convention Executive Director-Treasurer Dr. Gary Hollingsworth formally announced his plans to retire during the Executive Board meeting on Tuesday, April 26, in Columbia. His official retirement date will be April 30, 2023.

“From a ministry perspective, this timing is critical. God has assembled an incredible team of men and women who serve on the convention staff. I feel confident they will continue to do the necessary work to see every church advance and every life saturated with the hope of the gospel,” Hollingsworth said.

The SCBC is in the process of clarifying its mission, vision, strategy, and ministry metrics through a three-year consult with Denominee, a nationally respected consulting ministry. As a result, Hollingsworth said he should “commit to stay another five to 10 years to see this strategy into the next phase or decide this would be the time for a new leader to step in and be a part of that journey from the beginning.”

Hollingsworth and his wife Gwen plan to be closer to aging in-laws, children, and grandchildren in retirement. After 47 years in full-time ministry, the couple also looks forward to volunteer opportunities with no intention of “retiring from ministry.” 

According to the Standing Rules of the SCBC Executive Board, the board chairman is charged with assembling the executive director-treasurer search team consisting of current members of the board. Chairman Steve Hogg will begin this process immediately.

Of Hollingsworth’s service Hogg said, “you’ve done many good things in your role as leader. Historically you’ve led us through healing into a place of trust for a positive direction for the future. God has used you in a remarkable way.”

Hollingsworth has served as executive director-treasurer since January 13, 2016. He came to South Carolina from Arkansas, where he was serving as pastor of Immanuel Baptist Church.

“I pledge to work hard in the next 12 months to do everything possible to ensure the convention is as prepared for a transition of leadership. God already knows who that next leader will be,” Hollingsworth told board members.

The SCBC is a family of more than 2,100 churches working together to advance the Great Commission. For more information, visit www.scbaptist.org.