John Thompson, Senior Pastor
Where were you born?
Knoxville, Tennessee
Where did you grow up?
Columbia, S.C.
Tell us about your family.
I was born into a very strict religious family - church every Sunday (morning & evening services), BTU “Baptist Training Union” in the afternoon and prayer meeting on Wednesday evenings. Although I had two brothers I was raised with only my younger brother in the home. Our home life was warm and nourishing. My mother never learned to read and write, but her faith was simply amazing. She taught me to pray. My father was a hard worker and both my parents died in their early sixties. We lived in the south and faced all the limitations of any persons of color. My mother was sick most of my life and my father worked himself to death. We had a large extended family in the community and there was great support from every corner; the family, the church, the community and the school. We always had dessert on Sundays and all meals were prepared from scratch. My mother was a great cook. She also had an angelic voice. I loved to hear her sing. I went to college on a scholarship. It took me five years to pay the hospital following my father’s death. I began working at the age of six. I still love working today! My faith is informed by the love of my mother, who always told me, “It’s gonna be alright,” no matter how people treated her.
Where did you go to College, Graduate School? What were your Degrees?
Paine College, B.A
Benedict College
University of South Carolina
Wesley Theological Seminary, M. Div
When did you have a call to Ministry?
In 1963, as a member of the Baptist Church.
I was called to preach at the age of 15. I was required to study for two years under the leadership of seasoned clergy before I was recommended for a license to preach at the age of 17. My grandfather was a great preacher in the Baptist tradition. He was my model. He died before preached my first sermon. Once I was enlightened I joined the Methodist Church. I preached my first sermon on March 27, 1963. Since that day I have revisited my call many times.
Where have you served in Ministry?
All over the world, as a civilian pastor, police chaplain, hospital chaplain, military chaplain
How long have you been in Ministry? Been at Park Hill United Methodist Church?
45 years and since 2005.
What is your favorite part of your current position?
I am an incurable pastor. My greatest gift is to recognize the God given talent in others.
What is your favorite Bible Verse and why?
Psalm 121:1-2. I like being reminded where my help comes from.
What is your favorite quality of God?
God’s love as revealed in Jesus Christ: non-judgmental, nurturing, affirming and boundless.
