RICHMOND, Va. (BP)–Louis Moore, associate vice president for communications at the Southern Baptist International Mission Board, has been named as a special assistant to President Jerry Rankin.
In his new capacity Moore will manage large, long-term communications projects, such as book development. He already has been commissioned to write a book about a missionary family that was murdered overseas, though details about that project are being withheld for now because of security concerns.
A graduate of Baylor University and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Moore was religion editor of the Houston Chronicle for 14 years. He was associate director of products for the Southern Baptist Christian Life Commission (now Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission) for six years before joining the International Mission Board staff in 1994.
As leader of the IMB’s communications office, Moore oversaw the overhaul and expansion of the board’s overseas correspondent system, introduction of the “Kids on Mission” video and creation of the mobilization fliers, a supplement to The Commission magazine that now circulates more than 1.5 million copies monthly.
“Since my days as a newspaper reporter in Houston, I’ve been fascinated with book writing,” Moore said. “This new opportunity in the president’s office dovetails quite nicely with that long-term interest. I’m really excited about this move and look forward to the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.”
Rankin said he was glad the board could focus Moore’s abilities on several important projects that have been needing attention.
“I am thrilled we are able to capitalize on Louis’ writing experience and skills and his passionate commitment to missions,” Rankin said. “With his help, we will be able to produce some products and resources that have been needed for a long time.”
Moore has coauthored, ghost written or edited 20 books, including works with Richard Land, ERLC president; Grant Teaff, former head football coach at Baylor University; and Del Harris, former head coach of the Houston Rockets basketball team.
He is married to Kay Wheeler Moore, with whom he co-wrote “When You Both Go to Work,” published by Word Inc. in 1982. Their company, KLMK Communications Inc., purchased Hannibal Books, a small evangelical book publishing company with some 40 titles in print, from Southern Baptist authors Jim and Marti Hefley in May 1999.
Wendy Norvelle is serving as the IMB’s acting vice president for public relations and development since the resignation of David Button earlier in January. Action on Moore’s successor is expected to await the election of Button’s replacement.
