Meet Our Pastor and First Lady

Discover the inspiring journey and unwavering faith of our beloved Pastor, Reverend Michael D. Thompson. Learn about his vision for Saint James Missionary Baptist Church and the profound impact he has on our community.

About Our Pastor, Reverend Michael D. Thompson

Reverend Michael D. Thompson’s loving personality and explosive preaching ability of the uncompromising Word of God has drawn many people to the body of Christ for the past 15 years. Although he has had many trials as Pastor, his love for the Word as well as the people has caused him to emerge as one of the influential spiritual leaders of his community.

As Pastor of the Saint James Missionary Baptist Church, he has a greater vision to expand his ministry through evangelism, believing that "As We Go - We Grow." Pastor Thompson was born in Palestine, Texas, to Brenda Thompson and Isaiah Williams, Jr. He was blessed to be raised for 14 years by his grandfather and grandmother, the late Edward and Thelma Thompson, who instilled in him the ways of Jesus. He grew up as a Pentecostal kid, experiencing many wonderful works of the power of God, with souls saved and sick people healed through deliverance of all kinds.

He married the lovely Andrea Arthur who was a member of the same church. And as he would say, “Oh what a blessing to him she is.”

To this union were three children born. Christopher, Shundrea, and Tre’Darion Thompson of which he is very proud to be their father. They moved their membership to New Life Seventh Day Adventist Church in Palestine where Pastor Michael Mitchell was their pastor. Under his leadership, they were blessed to attend many seminars that were very inspiring but more so - informing. Pastor Thompson served as Youth Director as well as a Youth Elder and worked with the Stewardship Committee at New Life. At the age of 24, God called for his ministry to go further. He became Pastor of St. James Missionary Baptist Church of Elkhart Texas as well as Ebenezer Baptist Church of Tucker Texas - both in the year 2000. Both churches were bi-weekly churches. He served the Ebenezer Baptist Church for 8 years and went on to take the St. James Churchas as Pastor every Sunday.

Our Pastor's Vision and Community Engagement

Under Pastor Thompson’s leadership, several ministries have been born. He holds a vision to build a new edifice for worship for the Saint James Church as God continues to grow the ministry. The church is located in what Pastor often describes as “the woods,” but he always adds, “There is something good in the woods.” He believes that because our church is alive and has much to offer to the body of Christ and the people of this world, his motto for us has become, “The drive to something alive is well worth it.”

Pastor Thompson serves as the second Vice President of the Palestine Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance, where Pastor Dwayne Moffitt serves as President. He is also part of the Palestine Bowen District Association, with Pastor James Bass as the Moderator. He attended the Living Word Bible College under Professor A.V. Hicks. His will to learn and eagerness to grow has led him to numerous conferences, and he is currently making plans to enroll in seminary. Pastor Thompson’s love for preaching and his energy are evident in his impactful ministry.

"Reverend Thompson's unwavering faith and commitment have truly transformed our church and community. His vision inspires us all to grow in spirit and service."

A devoted member of Saint James Missionary Baptist Church