After a long ministry, and five years at Masontown Brethren, Rod Thomas retires.

After five years of faithful ministry at Masontown Brethren Church, Rod Thomas has retired. Rod spent years in ministry, both in The Brethren Church and abroad. For much of their adult life, the family traveled as a gospel vocal group, sharing their incredible gifts of music in churches across the country.

National staff member TJ McLaughlin was in attendance at the retirement service in late May, 2021. McLaughlin shared fondly memories of assisting the Thomases with a broken down tour bus during a visit to Pleasant View Brethren Church. “I always looked forward to that bus pulling in the driveway. We just really greatly appreciated those years in your ministry.” McLaughlin went on, addressing the congregation at Masontown, “You all have done some heavy lifting—setting the stage with your dedication and prayer—for the fruitful ministry of the last five years. God brought the right pastoral couple, at the right time. There’s no doubt in my mind.”

Masontown is currently seeking a new pastor. In the interim, Pastor Benji Zylka is providing pulpit supply. Zylka was most recently pastor of Johnstown Second Brethren Church, which closed in August of 2021.