R. Jerome Thomas was born a preacher's son in Louisiana and moved with his family to California when he was ten. However, Reverend Thomas, consumed by his congregation and doubting his son's potential, kept his distance. When Thomas reluctantly answers the call to the ministry himself, his father is delighted, but his mentoring is short-lived-he dies soon thereafter, only 58 years old, leaving his son to find his way from a reluctant to a willing servant. In this memoir, Thomas chronicles his profound transformation. His journey is marked by diverse and impactful roles: Peace Corps volunteer, seminarian, church pastor, prison and military chaplain, civil rights activist, and, in retirement, a poet and storyteller. His narrative is rich with tales of hard work and deep love, including several romances before marriage, two divorces and three marriages, along with his deep affection for his parents, sisters, three daughters, and grandchildren. Thomas believes in the power of listening closely to the stories of others. In
The Letter I Never Sent: A Memoir of Resilience,
he generously offers us his. It's our turn to listen to and learn from this inspiring, faithful, and dedicated servant of God.
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"By the grace and mercy of the living God,
R. Jerome Thomas shares with us his inspiring story of the wonder-working power of God who helped him to find himself, his purpose for living, and for honoring his Creator. This well-told story is detailed with breathtaking and awe-inspiring events of both valley and mountain peak experiences." -J. Alfred Smith Sr.
Emeritus pastor, Allen Temple, Oakland, CA
Emeritus professor, Berkeley School of Theology, Berkeley, CA