As of July 31, Rufus Harris closed the book on what he calls “one of the greatest blessings of his life.”
For nearly 19 of his nearly 40 years in ministry, Harris served as pastor of Locust Fork Baptist Church. The church held a retirement reception for him and his wife, Emily, on July 30.
“I hope that my legacy is that the church is healthy, harmonious and has a great future ahead,” he said.
Harris preached his first sermon at Locust Fork Baptist on Oct. 5, 1998, and has seen “great unity and harmony through the years.” He is proud of how missions-minded the congregation is and prays their passion only grows as time goes on.
And through the years the church has grown in membership and giving. These are good things but Harris wants to be remembered for his faith.
“I also want my legacy to be that I conducted myself with honesty and integrity and that my goal was to glorify my Father in heaven,” he said.
Harris holds a bachelor’s degree from Murray State University in Kentucky and a master of divinity degree from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky.
The Harrises plan to remain in Locust Fork and look forward to traveling out of state often to see their two daughters and three grandchildren.
“We have been so blessed to serve the Lord in full-time ministry since 1980,” Rufus Harris said. “Our hearts are so full of gratitude to the Lord for this opportunity. We are looking forward to what He has for us in the future.” (TAB)
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