Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Lydia Thomas. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Lydia, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
I frequently find that I am “the only one in the room”. Being a double minority (female and person of color) and the lead person of a denomination is not the norm in the religious world. Some people reject the inclusion of females in ministry, while others may simply be oblivious to the challenges this may present. Questions, suggestions and critiques are often accepted more readily from male counterparts or majority ethnic groups. I have determined that my gender and ethnicity are permanent so I can choose to shy away from the challenges that being the “only one” may bring or I can choose to stay true to who and what I am. Being relatively unique may require one to be extra knowledgeable, diplomatic and diligent in business. In the end, I am responsible to God for my actions and how I use the talents given me.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Currently I am serving as the International Presiding Elder of the United Pentecostal Council of the Assemblies of God (UPCAG), a non-profit religious organization established 1919 in Cambridge, MA. In July of 2023, I was selected as the first female International Presiding Elder since the organization’s inception. UPCAG currently has churches in four U. S. Geographic locations, along with districts in Barbados, Liberia West Africa and Romania. Concurrently I serve as an executive officer of Pentecostal Charismatic Churches of North America.
Having grown up in the Black Pentecostal Church, I became aware of a “calling” on my life to be instrumental in spreading the gospel and love of Jesus Christ. Although I served as an educator for over 30 years in the inner city of Chicago, IL, I always understood that my first call and passion lay in the religious world. Being involved in ministry has allowed me to develop both my ministerial and administrative skills and to connect with people from all walks of life. My greatest joy is in observing the life change experienced by those seeking to understand and pursuit their identity in Christ.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
One area of knowledge most impactful in my life is the understanding of who I am in Christ. I can embrace the biblical paradox of being simultaneously strong and weak. While I am reminded that I can do all things through Christ, I yet realize that I inherently have weaknesses which helps me maintain balance in life. I am aware of who I truly am which is both wonderful and sobering at the same time.
The Scout motto of 1907, “Be prepared”, is also a part of my practice. I embrace education, diligence and a desire for excellence in all walks of life.
Finally, I have learned to stay true to areas that I am called to impact rather than lacking focus and attempting to impact all areas. It is critical to identify and fulfill ones life purpose.
How would you spend the next decade if you somehow knew that it was your last?
If I knew that I only had a decade of life left, I would seek to know what is important in life versus what is temporary or fleeting. While I value material goods, I would not devote my brief life span to obtaining things. Rather I would focus on eternity, family, and the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://UPCAG.org
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