Pastor Ron Thompson

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The Reverend Ron Thompson was born, raised and continues to live in Union County, New Jersey.  He and his wife, Vyonnia, are close to celebrating 43 years of marriage.  They have two adult sons, Jeremy and Steven, and are blessed with three granddaughters and two grandsons.  They both like to travel.  He is a “late bloomer” marathoner.  She is always patiently waiting at the finish line.

Pastor Ron believes that he “can do all things through Christ”, who is the source of his strength (Ephesian 4:13). He has a BS in Organizational Management from Nyack College, New York as well as a Masters of Divinity from Cairn University, Pennsylvania (formerly Philadelphia Biblical University).  His mother was instrumental in starting his early Christian training at the Greystone Presbyterian Church of Elizabeth, NJ.  His Christian education and spiritual formation continued at the Greater Mount Moriah Baptist Church of Linden, NJ.  There he would later receive his call to ministry.  Pastor Ron was ordained as an Associate Minister in 1991.  He accepted the opportunity to serve as Interim Pastor and then Pastor of the Imani Temple Baptist Church of Elizabeth, NJ., serving from 2009 to 2015.
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Pastor Ron built a career as a “tent maker” (co-vocational) enabling him to financially support his family, his educational expenses, and contribute to the advancement of the Gospel.  He retired from the Bayway Refinery after 38 years.  His work allowed him to travel throughout the U.S.  Prior to the start of his work career, Pastor Ron served four years in the United States Marine Corps.  He is a Vietnam Era veteran who still believes we should serve those who cannot serve themselves.
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Pastor Ron believes that the work of the church is outside the church.  He and his wife lead a monthly nursing home visitation.  Together, they conduct pre-marital counseling, have hosted married couple retreats and youth retreats.  They devote time and resources to support a local homeless ministry.

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