has dedicated his life to the A.O.H. Church of God, Inc., following in the footsteps of his father, Elder C.J. Thomas, a revered pastor and church planter, and his mother, Mother Julia Thomas, a renowned singer within the church community. His unwavering commitment to service has led him to hold numerous leadership roles, including Chairman of the Deacon Board, Youth President, Youth District Worker, Sunday School Teacher, Usher, Trustee, Administrative Assistant to the Southern Regional Youth President, Youth Pastor, Church Organist, Assistant Overseer, and District Overseer.
Currently, Bishop Thomas serves as the esteemed Pastor of The Cathedral of The Cross A.O.H. Church of God. In June 2023, he was consecrated to the sacred Office of Bishop, continuing his legacy of spiritual leadership and guidance.
Beyond his ministry, Bishop Thomas has built a strong foundation in family and education. He has been blessed with 39 years of marriage to Reverend Annie Thomas, and together they have raised three children: Deanna Gray, Crystal Thomas, and Christopher Thomas Jr. His family also includes his beloved daughter-in-law, Courtney, and son-in-law, Quinten Gray, along with five cherished grandchildren: Israel Gray, Nathan Gray, Zion Gray, Berniece Gray, and Jael Gray.
Bishop Thomas received his early education in Montgomery and Birmingham, Alabama. A distinguished student, he graduated from Glenn High School in 1981, ranking sixth in his class and earning membership in the National Honor Society. He pursued higher education at the University of Alabama and UAB, later obtaining an Associate of Science degree in Fire Science from Lawson State Community College.
With a remarkable 30-year career in the Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service, Bishop Thomas rose to the rank of Battalion Chief before his retirement in August 2015. His dedication to public service continues as he imparts his expertise to the next generation, teaching high school students at Parker High School in the Fire Science Career Technical Curriculum, equipping young individuals with the skills to pursue careers as firefighters
