Manning United Methodist Church welcomed a new pastor this summer.
Pastor Kem Thomas began his ministry at the church on Rigby Street in Manning on July 1.
He is a graduate of the University of Texas, where he received a degree in business and marketing. He received a master of divinity degree at Erskine Theological Seminary and has been in the ministry for more than 17 years.
He has served three appointments at six churches. His first charge lasted five years; his second charge, 10. He is currently in his third appointment.
Thomas is a former Eagle Scout and was a captain in the U.S. Army. He has been married to his wife, Rita, for more than 42 years. The couple has two daughters, Tiffany (Mike) Kent and Jackie (Branson) Bruce. They have one grandson through Tiffany and Mike Kent, Wyatt Lee.
The couple’s home is completed by 9-year-old yellow Labrador retriever, Grace.
