Pastor Robert & Stephanie Thomas

Pastor Robert L. Thomas was born in Newport News, Virginia, the fourth of five children born to Joe Riley and Helen Price Thomas. He attended Newport News Public Schools and graduated from Huntington High School. Upon graduation he attended Hampton Institute (now Hampton University) on a football scholarship. Also at Hampton University, Robert earned his Bachelor of Science in Physical Education, his Master of Arts in Secondary Education, and a Master's Degree in Business Administration. While studying there, he worked as support staff. After receiving his MA, he taught part-time in the Physical Education and Health Department

In 1984, Pastor Thomas left Hampton University to work for the U.S. Post Office where he remained until 2000. From 1987 to 1990, Robert worked for H. R. Block Tax Service before opening his own tax preparation business from 1990 to 2000.

He served on the Board of Directors for the Peninsula Crisis Pregnancy Center (now Care Net) for two years and became Chairman of the Board in his third year of service. For five years, Robert ministered at the Newport News Juvenile Detention Center through Southeastern Correctional Ministries, an organization which ministers to over twenty prisons, jails, and juvenile detention centers, and served on their Board of Directors for two years.

From the time that Pastor Thomas had his born again experience, he has had a thirst, hunger, and appreciation for the Word of God. While at Hampton University, he conducted a bible study for support staff. Also, Robert and his wife Stephanie held Bible studies in their home. Then in 1994, God called him to start Judah Christian Center (later Judah Tabernacle). The church grew and prospered as the ministry consistently laid a solid foundation in scripture with emphasis on service, family, worship, and living a committed Christian life. Over the years, God has used the ministry to impact many lives through missions, outreach programs, and the radio broadcasts,

"Renewing the Mind" and "Applying the Word."

Judah Tabernacle became New Grace Church in 2014.

Pastor Thomas is President and Pastor of New Grace Church, Inc. Pastor Robert and Stephanie have been married for 51 years. They have two children, Andre and Dedra, a son-in-law, Tracy Matthews, and two grandchildren, Jaelyn and Caleb.