Lunch: Book Publication

Dr. James R. Thomas is a distinguished educator, pastor, author, and retired United States Air Force Reserve Lieutenant Colonel whose career spans more than five decades of leadership in theology, higher education, public service, and community engagement.

Currently, he serves as Associate Professor of Church and Ministry at Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary of Lenoir-Rhyne University in Columbia, South Carolina, where he teaches courses in Christian mission, faith formation, stewardship, worship, peace studies, and African Descent traditions. He also serves as Director of African Descent Outreach for Region 9 of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

Dr. Thomas holds an impressive academic background that includes a Ph.D. in Education Policy and Administration from the University of Minnesota, a Master of Sacred Theology from Union Theological Seminary, a Master of Science in Education from the City University of New York, a Master of Divinity from Christ Seminary-Seminex, and a Master's Degree in Special Education from Bank Street Graduate School of Education.

Throughout his ministry, he has served congregations in New York, Minnesota, and South Carolina and has held significant leadership positions within the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, including Assistant to the Bishop of the Minneapolis Area Synod. His commitment to service also extended to the military, where he served as a chaplain in the Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard, including response efforts following the September 11, 2001 attacks.

A respected scholar and public theologian, Dr. Thomas is the author of A Rumor of Black Lutherans and numerous articles addressing African American religious history, ministry, peacebuilding, and social justice. His contributions have been recognized through numerous honors, including the Lenoir-Rhyne University Humanitarian Award, the Herman W. and Elizabeth Cauble Faculty Distinguished Service Award, and recognition from the United States Congress.

Through his teaching, writing, ministry, and public service, Dr. James R. Thomas continues to inspire faith leaders, students, and communities with his commitment to education, justice, reconciliation, and servant leadership.