Dr. John D Thomas Jr. II

Meet Dr. John D. Thomas Jr. II

Founding Senior Pastor | Upon This Rock

Dr. John D. Thomas Jr. II is a pastor, preacher, teacher, author, biblical counselor, and servant leader dedicated to proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ and helping people grow through the Word of God. Pastoring since 2010, he brings more than 15 years of pastoral leadership and over 20 years of ministry experience to his calling.

Throughout his ministry, Dr. Thomas has served the Body of Christ through preaching, teaching, pastoral care, biblical counseling, discipleship, leadership development, and community outreach. His ministry is rooted in making Scripture practical and applicable to everyday life, with an emphasis on spiritual growth, navigating life's challenges through God's Word, and strengthening individuals and families.

Dr. Thomas holds an Associate Degree in Psychology, a Bachelor's Degree in Theology, a Master's Degree in Pastoral Leadership, and a Doctorate in Biblical Counseling. His education, combined with decades of hands-on ministry experience, has helped shape a pastoral approach that recognizes the spiritual, emotional, and practical needs of the people he serves.

He is the Founding Senior Pastor of Upon This Rock (UTR), a Christ-centered ministry committed to transforming lives, developing disciples, strengthening families, and impacting communities through the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Dr. Thomas is the author of Overcoming With Scripture: How to Live Victorious Through the Word of God and Guard Your Ground, a 30-day devotional. Through his writing, he encourages believers to apply biblical truth to everyday challenges, protect what God has entrusted to them, and live victoriously through the Word of God.

Beyond the pulpit, Dr. Thomas is a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His commitment to family is an important part of his life and ministry, reflecting his belief in building strong families, leaving a godly legacy, and investing in the generations that follow.

At the heart of Dr. Thomas's ministry is a simple conviction: God's Word has the power to transform lives. Whether preaching, counseling, developing leaders, or serving the community, his desire is to see people come to know Jesus Christ, mature in their faith, discover their God-given purpose, and become equipped to serve others.

Dr. Thomas serves alongside his wife, Dr. Jamilah Thomas, First Lady of Upon This Rock, as they share a commitment to faith, family, ministry, and advancing the Kingdom of God.

“Upon this rock I will build my church.” — Matthew 16:18 (KJV)