Rev. Cecil J. Fitzgerald Thompson
The Rev. Cecil Jacob Fitzgerald Thompson brings a ministry marked by Christ‑centered leadership, connectional service to his work in the church, and academic excellence.
Leadership & Ministry
Rev. Thompson began his pastoral journey in 2015 and has served as Senior Pastor in each of his appointments.
- Senior Pastor, Epworth UMC, Toledo (2024-Present)
As Senior Pastor, Rev. Thompson leads with a steady blend of strategic clarity and pastoral compassion, guiding the congregation toward renewed growth, deeper healing, and a shared vision for the future. - Senior Pastor, Braden UMC, Toledo (2018–2023)
Guided the church into deeper spiritual vitality, community partnerships, and incarnational hospitality. - Senior Pastor, Gethsemane UMC, Columbus (2016–2018)
Led the congregation into renewed engagement, Christ‑centered community, and vibrant youth participation.
A defining season of his ministry emerged during the COVID‑19 pandemic in 2020, when Rev. Thompson’s prudent, steady, and compassionate leadership guided the church through one of the most challenging moments of our time.
Rev. Thompson was commissioned in 2021 and elected as a full member and ordained as an elder in full connection in 2022 in the West Ohio Conference.
In addition to Rev. Thompson’s current role as Senior Pastor of Epworth UMC, he serves the West Ohio Conference and the Maumee River District in several key leadership roles:
Connectional Leadership
- Member, West Ohio Conference Board of Ordained Ministry
- Member, Maumee River District Strategic Team
- Member, Maumee River District Board of Directors
- Chair, West Ohio Conference Committee on Nominations
Rev. Thompson’s spiritual formation began in the life of the church, nurtured by Scripture, prayer, and the faithful witness of African Methodism. Those early experiences of worship, community, service, and grace shaped his understanding of God’s call. Over the years, mentors, congregations, and the practices of Wesleyan discipleship have continued to deepen his sense of vocation and the work of Christ in community.
Education & Honors
Rev. Thompson’s academic path reflects both intellectual rigor and a deep love for theology and the church.
- M.Div., Methodist Theological School in Ohio — Highest Distinction
- Baccalaureate Speaker
- Bishop Dwight & Mrs. Mildred Loder International Scholar
- Mark C. Sprague Memorial Scholar
- Ronald L. Williams Book Prize in Theology & Ethics
- J.D., The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
- B.A., English Honors & University Honors (Co‑Major), Wayne State University
- Certificate of Academic Excellence in Honors English
- Certificate of Academic Achievement
Rev. Thompson’s academic formation is grounded in the Wesleyan conviction that learning is a means of grace—uniting knowledge, holiness, and service. His theological study reflects a commitment to integrating head and heart, scholarship and ministry. He received the Ronald L. Williams Book Prize in Theology and Ethics, awarded to a student demonstrating extraordinary potential in these fields. Rev. Thompson has also contributed to broader academic conversations by presenting research papers to several organizations and institutions, including the Michigan Academy of Science, Arts, and Letters and the Garrett Theological Seminary Graduate Theological Conference. Rev. Thompson is a member of the American Academy of Religion.
Personal Background
Born in Freetown, Sierra Leone, Rev. Thompson grew up in a family shaped by faith, justice, and service. He is the son of the late Hon. Justice Dr. R. John Bankole Thompson, an international jurist and scholar, and Mrs. Claribelle Abisodun Thompson, a retired educator and administrator. Their influence instilled in him a lifelong commitment to compassion, integrity, and hope.
Family & Life
Rev. Thompson is married to his beloved wife, Kim, whose partnership and love are central to his life and ministry. Together they enjoy exploring the Metroparks, discovering new restaurants, and savoring the beauty of God’s creation. His extended family spans Michigan, Texas, and Maryland, keeping him connected to a wide circle of loved ones.
Guiding Scripture
His ministry is anchored in Jesus’ command in Mark 12:30–31 to love God with heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love one’s neighbor with the same generosity God shows us.