Dr. Walter Scott Thomas, Jr. is a living testament to the principle of leading by example, not only through words but also through actions.

In August 2023, Dr. Thomas was elected as the esteemed Pastor-Elect of New Psalmist Baptist Church in Baltimore, MD, marking a significant chapter in his dedicated service to the church and the community.

His spiritual journey began in 2001 when he answered the call to preach the gospel. The sacred grounds of New Psalmist Baptist Church in Baltimore, MD, served as the hallowed space where he delivered his inaugural sermon under the spiritual guidance of his father and pastor, Bishop Walter S. Thomas, Sr. In 2007, he was ordained into the ministry, marking a pivotal moment in his divine calling.

Education has been a cornerstone of Dr. Thomas’s journey, underpinning his commitment to intellectual rigor and spiritual growth. He graduated Cum Laude from Morehouse College, majoring in Religious Studies with a minor in Psychology. His academic prowess was evident as he emerged as the top-ranking senior in his major department. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for his continued pursuit of knowledge and service.

Furthering his theological education, Dr. Thomas earned his Master of Divinity Degree from Howard University School of Divinity, where he distinguished himself as a Lilly Foundation Fellow and Dean Evans Crawford Scholar. His contributions extended beyond academics, as he served as a Graduate Assistant at the historic Andrew Rankin Chapel, imprinting his mark on the spiritual fabric of the institution.

In 2023, Dr. Thomas reached a high point of academic achievement, earning his Doctor of Ministry degree from the esteemed United Theological Seminary. His doctoral research delved into “Effective Leadership for Creative Ministry in the Post-Modern Generation,” culminating in a dissertation focused on “Developing Lay Leaders for Transitional Leadership.”

Dr. Thomas’s profound impact extends beyond academia into the fabric of his pastoral leadership. In 2014, Dr. Thomas became the Senior Pastor of the First Baptist Church of Steelton in Harrisburg, PA. The congregation experienced growth through his visionary leadership. He oversaw church operations, while spearheading transformative initiatives and modernizing departments. Dr. Thomas also led the church through a comprehensive roofing project and began the Legacy Capital Campaign to move the church toward financial freedom.
Dr. Thomas’s multifaceted skills and extensive leadership activities culminated in his appointments and engagements across esteemed platforms such as the Governor’s Advisory Commission on African American Affairs for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, presenting at renowned conferences like the Charles E. Booth Preaching Conference, and serving in pivotal leadership roles for various organizations and institutes.

Balancing his pastoral duties and community engagement, Dr. Thomas finds solace and strength in his personal life. He is married to Mrs. Jarrette L. Thomas, and together, they nurture their two cherished children, Lillian Grace and Walter, III.

With an unwavering spirit of excellence and a heart steadfast in serving God and humanity, Dr. Walter Scott Thomas, Jr. continues to inspire and uplift lives through his ministry, service, and visionary leadership.