“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13) These are the words to live by for Thomas A. Wilkerson, III. This man of God is driven with a heart designed to serve and his dedication to ministry is apparent in all that he does. Thomas’ motivation and energy are the traits that instill the notion that there is no limit to the potential that God has for the fulfillment of His plan through 12 Stones Inc. He believes in the power of evangelism, and the promises of hope that correlate with the Bible.

He utilizes all of his gifts and talents to enhance the mission that this endeavor is seeking to achieve. There is no task too large or too small to hold a substantial place In his heart and he approaches each one with the same enthusiasm. Thomas, who was born and raised in Philadelphia, PA is the epitome of a family man. He is a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather who keeps God at the forefront of his household. Thomas interests include music and sports, most especially football. He has coached several teams in basketball, baseball and football over the years with zeal. He is a natural teacher who exercises patience and compassion always.

Thomas recognizes that children are our future and is committed to making a difference in young lives. This graduate of Lancaster Bible College has earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Ministry. He looks forward to being ordained in 2018. His passion for teaching the Bible allows him to lead engaging and encouraging classes that ensure the spiritual growth for which Christians aspire. Thomas recognizes the importance of a solid relationship with Christ and is adamant about making the connection personal through Bible Study and fellowship. He preaches regularly and through sermons that touch the heart, he delivers encouragement, enlightenment, and mindful analysis. His “glass is half full” philosophy inspires those around him. Thomas’ musical gifts have served well to build the Kingdom. His aptitude and fervor in the musical industry dates back to high school.

His years as a disc jockey have yielded an affinity for all types of music throughout the years. His expertise in the technological aspect of the entertainment industry has become a ministry in itself. He has been selected to serve as the Minister for Music for a multitude of events in Philadelphia and the surrounding areas. Additionally, he was appointed the Music Ministry Coordinator for The Salvation Army Philadelphia Kroc Corps, where he has directed and produced a vast array of events that have blessed more than we can count. He has implemented a mentoring program that teaches young adults in these areas. He leads the Men’s Fellowship Ministry working hard at influencing men to become involved and assume the roles as the backbone of the church. This demographic is a challenge that is common in most churches, but Pastor Wilkerson is determined to overcome that concept. The feeding ministry is another one that is a high priority for Thomas. He is moved by his heartfelt desire to make a difference in the lives of those in the community. His recognition of this intimate fellowship, and the impact that it has on families in a more personal way makes him a “go-to” person for many. His availability is highlighted by the sense of genuine concern that those that he encounters can perceive. He makes such a difference by listening to their concerns, and taking the necessary steps to find resolve for whatever is presented before him. He is relentless in his attempts to fill any reasonable need that he can satisfy.

Thomas bridges the gap between Philadelphia bureaucracy and the community. He will roll up his sleeves and hit the streets in a heartbeat to monitor the pulse of the neighborhoods in order to meet their needs. He is an advocate and an aid for those residents seeking services and assistance that have difficulty making progress. He will find a way to connect the community to the resources required to ensure access that can improve the quality of their lives as often as possible. His viewpoint reflects the fact that people are the heart of the community, therefore it is important that all of the factors that influence them are sound, and productive in order for them to thrive. His vision reflects strength, solidarity and hope for a brighter tomorrow. Thomas’ leadership guarantees our ability to maintain the highest level of integrity most especially because of the commitment for accountability to our Lord and Savior.

Since Pastor Tamiko was ordained on April 26, 2014, she has been relentless in ministry through the Amazing Grace Baptist Church, where she served as an associate minister. She was also appointed by The Salvation Army Philadelphia Kroc Corps, to the position of Assistant Sergeant Major and Young Adult Ministry Coordinator. Her vibrant personality and infectious smile resonates well in the hearts of all that become familiar with her. Her willingness to serve is apparent through the countless initiatives in which she engages. Frequently she has been invited as a guest speaker throughout the Philadelphia area, where she brings the Word to life in a manner that has tremendously blessed thousands. Her style of preaching makes her messages tangible with real life scenarios and practical application.

The intensity of her schedule has served to augment the quality of the time that she dedicates to her loving and supportive family. She also finds solace in ministering to herself physically through Zumba, cycling, and reading. She is a marathon runner who takes exercise and nutrition seriously. She works out consistently, and she and her family were recently featured in the Salvation Army connects magazine for the way that they combine physical, spiritual and emotional growth.

It was inevitable for her call to ministry to lead her in this direction because she is motivated by her desire not only to share the good news of Jesus Christ, but also to make a significant difference in her community. The responsibility of Pastor naturally includes the incorporation of Bible study, youth programs, and evangelism training from her perspective, however there are real-life characteristics that she feels must be addressed to paint the whole picture of fruitfulness. In order to rise above our circumstances, she feels that a more holistic approach has to be applied to the mission of 12 Stones Inc. Her ministry goals include, but are not limited to her determination to increase educational and life skills for those whose quality of life are less than desired. She believes that type of enrichment will ensure the ability to overcome plights that are common in urban neighborhoods.

Her aspirations for ministry include a vast array of resources for strengthening the family unit. Feeding programs hold a soft spot in her heart, and the implementation of this agenda is high on her priority list. Through a combination of supplemental programs, her goal is to supply groceries to families on a consistent basis and ultimately serve hot meals where needed.
She also recognizes a need for mentoring to adults as well as children and is taking the necessary steps to develop these directives. Support groups that offer counseling for dilemmas that we face such as domestic violence, parenting, child abuse, bullying, human trafficking, marital issues and other areas are the main concern, and through partnerships with other organizations will be implemented within this congregation.

Pastor Wilkerson finds encouragement in Proverbs 3:5-6 where we are instructed to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.” Her fortitude is the direct result of seeking God first and allowing Him to be her compass. It is this viewpoint that makes us confident in her ability to not only lead this flock but to utilize all that she has been blessed with to make us the difference that we want to see in the world. We are excited to introduce her to you, but not as excited as we are to see what God has in store for us with her, through her and around her.

12 Stones Inc. is a vision come to fruition for native Philadelphian Tamiko Mc-Rae Wilkerson. This wife, mother, and grandmother is a graduate of the Philadelphia High School for Girls who has gone on to earn Associate’s and Bachelor’s Degrees in Business Administration from Pierce College, a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership and Management from Pierce College, and a Master’s Degree in Ministry from Lancaster Bible College. She is as diligent in her career as she is in ministry, working in management within the telecommunications industry.