A Rumor of Black Lutherans: The Scholar Behind the Story Joins Our MLK Events
The Grand Canyon Synod is honored to welcome Rev. Dr. James R. Thomas as guest preacher for the Second Annual MLK Celebration in the Colorado River Conference on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. PT at New Song Church in Henderson, NV. Dr. Thomas—pastor, scholar, educator, and author—offers a powerful witness at the intersection of Lutheran faith, Black leadership, and global ministry. View all of our MLK event info here.
Dr. Thomas is the author of A Rumor of Black Lutherans: The Formation of Black Leadership in Early American Lutheranism (Fortress Press or Amazon). His book uncovers the often-overlooked history of African Americans shaped by Lutheran engagement in the early United States. Through ten compelling biographies, he brings forward stories that help Lutherans better understand our past—and imagine a more inclusive future.
We encourage congregations and individuals to read the book ahead of our MLK gatherings.
Purchase at Fortress Press, Amazon, or your preferred bookseller.
A remarkable journey shaped by resilience and call
Born in Opelousas, Louisiana, Dr. Thomas grew up in a Baptist community before discovering Lutheran theology in high school. That early encounter led him to the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod and later to Seminex, where he became part of a courageous movement committed to theological integrity during a time of institutional upheaval.
His years at Seminex shaped a pastoral identity rooted in truth-telling, justice, and deep trust in God’s faithfulness—qualities that align profoundly with the witness of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Dr. Thomas’ ministry has crossed many contexts:
Parish ministry in the Bronx
Thirteen years as professor at Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary
Global service and theological education in Accra, Ghana, where he continues to teach
His time in Ghana became a spiritual homecoming. “I feel like I’m home,” he recalls. “If I should die, just bury me right here.” His cross-cultural ministry demonstrates the global reach of Lutheran education and the rich diversity of the church’s mission.
A voice for Black Lutheran history
Dr. Thomas’ research centers the experiences of African Americans in Lutheran higher education and ministry—voices too often missing from our historical imagination. His new book includes figures connected directly to the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago, including Dr. Albert “Pete” Pero and Dr. Cheryl Pero. By lifting up these stories, he expands our understanding of Lutheran identity and invites the whole church into a deeper, more truthful reckoning with our shared past.
Join the celebration in Henderson
The Colorado River Conference’s 2026 MLK Celebration will feature:
Preaching by Rev. Dr. James Thomas
Music and community worship
A reception following the service
Sunday, January 18, 2026 • 2:00 p.m. PT
New Song Church
1291 Cornet Ave, Henderson, NV 89052
Contact: Pastor Paul Block — pastorpaul@newsonganthem.org
Assistant to the Bishop Rev. Jacqui Pagel will represent the Grand Canyon Synod at this event.
Why MLK worship matters for us today
Across our synod, MLK events remind us that the work of justice is part of our baptismal calling. Through Word and song, we gather in the spirit of Dr. King’s vision—trusting in God’s promise to create a beloved community where all people can flourish.
Offerings that build a just future
Gifts received across all MLK worship services support the Grand Canyon Synod’s work in:
Future Celebrations of Diversity
Developing a Synod Diversity & Social Justice Team
Your generosity strengthens the church’s mission of justice, healing, and hope.