This Week's Guest Pastor- Keyon Thomas.

Pastor Keyon Thomas is a dynamic and passionate individual who has dedicated his life to serving his community and spreading the message of agape (unconditional love), taught by Jesus. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Keyon attended the University of California, Santa Cruz, where he honed his skills in community organizing and political advocacy. After college, Keyon worked as the Chief Marketing Officer for various technology companies across California. However, his true calling remained in the realm of public service and community engagement, so having doubled down on his belief in God, Keyon took on the additional role of a Youth Pastor in Compton, CA, where he was able to help young people in an under-served community just as many others had helped him when he was in the same situation. 

Today, Keyon is the founder of The Bible Explorers, an online ministry focused on helping people understand the concept of agape and the importance of spreading this love throughout their communities. He is deeply involved in local and national politics, working as a political consultant for progressive candidates seeking public office. When he's not working on his ministry or supporting political campaigns, Keyon can be found volunteering at Chime Charter School, where he helps the Diversity by Design committee in their mission to build a more diverse community. He is a firm believer in the power of community and the transformative impact that can be achieved through acts of kindness and compassion.

This Week's Guest Pastor - Rev. Kenneth Davis

The Rev. Kenneth Davis, hailing from the vibrant city of Kingston, Jamaica, is now a resident of the diverse cultural hub of Los Angeles, California. His multicultural background and academic achievements, including a Bachelor's Degree from Loyola Marymount University and a Master's of Divinity Degree from Yale Divinity School in New Haven, Connecticut, reflect his global perspective and adaptability.

During his tenure at Yale, Rev. Davis not only excelled academically but also showcased his leadership skills and commitment to public service. His eloquence and persuasive speaking were recognized with the esteemed Charles S. Mersic Prize from the President and Fellows of Yale University. His potential for future leadership roles was evident as he was elected as the co-president of his graduating class and served as the president of the Black Student Association, positions that required strong leadership and organizational skills.

Rev. Davis's unwavering commitment to community involvement is evident in his recognition from the Mayor of Hartford, Connecticut, and the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. He has made a significant impact through his work in the public school system, as a director for several non-profit community organizations, and on the staff of various church denominations. His ordination in both the Pentecostal and Lutheran (E.L.C.A.) denominations further reflects his deep-rooted dedication to serving diverse communities. He completed his Clinical Pastoral Education units at Banner Thunderbird Medical Center, Glendale, Arizona. While there, he served as a chaplain in the Cancer and Critical Care units. His pastoral tenure includes:

1. Associate/Youth Pastor and church Administrator of Horace Bushnell United Church of Christ, Hartford, Connecticut.

2. Associate Pastor for men, family, and outreach ministries at La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church in Scottsdale, Arizona

3. Associate Pastor for outreach ministry at Christ the King Lutheran Church, Fallbrook, California.

He has also served as The senior pastor of;

• Lord of Life Lutheran, Moreno Valley, California.

• Good Shepherd Lutheran, Claremont, California.

• Palisades Lutheran, Pacific Palisades, California.

He currently the Part-Time Senior Pastor of Bethel Encino Lutheran, a Reconciling In Christ Congregation, and a Pulpit Supply, Interim, and Transition Training Pastor in the Southwest Synod of the E.L.C.A. He also used his theater degree to land featured roles in movies and commercials. He is honored to be the surviving parent of three adult daughters and live in the Baldwin Hills area with his partner and cat.

The first Sunday in September is traditionally “Welcome Back Sunday,” when we welcome everyone back from summer vacations and initiate the Fall season of church ministry.