James Matthew Thomas is a Professor of Pan African Studies at California State University, Los Angeles, an expert in Urban Community Planning, and the Senior Pastor of Living Word Community Church. As a pastor and teacher, Thomas consistently delivers an uncompromising message, even in unconventional settings such as government institutions, universities, businesses, and nonprofits. His direct yet compassionate approach creates a space where individuals openly share their struggles, frustrations, and victories, helping them lead more productive spiritual, personal, and professional lives.

Thomas's ministry has impacted a wide range of people, from the homeless on skid row and gang members in South LA to CEOs, celebrities, and Christian leaders. He is highly regarded for his practical, compelling delivery of biblical truth, with the ability to resonate with both Christians and those unaffiliated with the church. Among his many achievements, Thomas developed an HIV/AIDS prevention program and manual that was adopted by the State of California and is used by prominent churches across the state, including West Angeles, Faithful Central, and Crenshaw Christian Center.

Together with his wife, Mona D. Thomas, he co-founded African Americans for Quality Education, a support group of educators, parents, and admission directors aimed at promoting successful high school and college matriculation. This initiative later evolved into the Culturally Based Algebra Camp. As a consultant, Thomas has worked to reduce predatory payday loan practices and played a key role in expanding the service area of USC Credit Union to benefit worshippers in Los Angeles County.

In addition to his ministry and community efforts, Thomas produced a gospel album available on all streaming platforms and was featured on Maria Shriver’s television special, "Maria’s Best Places to Visit in California." He firmly believes that the church must champion a world free of racism, where justice, peace, and righteousness drive community transformation and economic development.

Driven by this vision, Thomas pursued four years of study at the University of Southern California’s Sol Price School of Public Policy, Planning, and Development, earning a doctorate that empowers him to craft faith-based solutions to complex social issues. His academic work, which spans public administration and nonprofit management, is interdisciplinary, theologically grounded, and focused on real-world applications. It serves as a framework for understanding how Christian involvement in nonprofits, government, and business can build civic capacity, promote equitable partnerships, and stimulate development in low-income communities of color.