Biographical Snapshot

Bishop Marvin Frank Thomas, Sr. is the 62nd Bishop of the Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME) Church, currently presiding over the First Episcopal District (Arkansas and Tennessee). A native of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, he is a career theologian and academic leader known for his extensive service in pastoral ministry, higher education, and civil rights advocacy.

Current Roles & Leadership

• Presiding Prelate: First Episcopal District, CME Church (since 2022).

• Senior Pastor: Trinity CME Church, Memphis, Tennessee.

• Board Leadership: Chair of the Lane College Board of Trustees and the CME Connectional Headquarters Board of Directors.

• Civic Engagement: Member of the National Board of Directors of the NAACP and life member.

Ecclesiastical Career

• Episcopacy: Elected July 1, 2014. Previously served as the Presiding Prelate of the Second Episcopal District (Kentucky, Ohio, and Central Indiana) from 2014–2022.

• Seminary Leadership: Former President/Dean of The Phillips School of Theology at the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC) in Atlanta.

• Pastoral Service: Served congregations across Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, Illinois, and Ohio, including Walls Memorial CME (Chicago) and Good News Community CME (Lithonia).

Education & Academic Background

• B.A. in History: Stillman College.

• Master of Divinity: Phillips School of Theology (ITC).

• Doctor of Ministry: United Theological Seminary.

• Honorary Doctorates: Awarded by Texas College and Stillman College.

• Faculty Experience: Previously served in student affairs and religion faculty roles at both Lane College and Stillman College.

Recent Honors & Affiliations

• Faith In Action Award (2025): Presented by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

• Memphis City Council Resolution (2025): Honored for leadership and spiritual guidance.

• Stillman College Distinguished Alumnus (2022): Recognized by his alma mater.

• Community Service: Former President of the Ohio Council of Churches and Co-Chair of the 2025 NAACP Memphis Branch Hooks-Graves Prayer Breakfast.

Personal Life

Bishop Thomas is the son of the late Minnie Thomas Brown. He has two adult children, Kourtney Lea and Marvin Frank Jr., and one grandson, Kameron.

Bishop Marvin Frank Thomas, Sr.

4466 Elvis Presley Blvd, Suite 222
Memphis, TN 38116

901-345-4114

bishopthomas@thecmechurch.org / marvinthomas671@gmail.com