Roger Thomas, a native of Valdosta, was consecrated to the sacred office of Jurisdictional Bishop in one of the largest African-American denominations in the world, the Church of God in Christ.

The episcopal consecratory service was held in conjunction with the 2016 Holy Convocation Nov. 13, 2016, in St. Louis, Mo. Thomas is now the Prelate of the California Southern Third Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction and senior pastor of Friendly Temple Church of God in Christ, located in Victorville, Calif., where he has been for more than 30 years. Thomas is the third of five sons born to the late Ralph and Bernell Thomas and grew up at 709 Holiday St., Valdosta. He attended the Valdosta Public School System and graduated from Pinevale High School in 1969.

Shortly after, he joined the U.S. Air Force and served for 21 years, retiring in the rank of master sergeant. He is married to the First Lady of Friendly Temple Church, Dr. Joyce Marie Thomas, who is also a licensed evangelist in the Church of God in Christ. They have four children, Lena, Corey, Rashaun and Dwane; and 10 grandchildren.