Memories of Thomas
Thomas Young touched the hearts of thousands of people all over the globe during his time here. Through the ministry of Young Endeavors and the founding of The Sanctuary Fellowship, Thomas was used by God to spread the gospel all over the world. If you were impacted by Thomas’ ministry in some way, please leave us a comment by using the form below. We would love to hear how Thomas made a difference in your life!
Leave a Reply
150 Responses to “Memories of Thomas”
Links
Bibles, Books and More!
Recent Messages
Recent Posts
Recent Comments
- Oneida Higginbotham on Praise Reports
- Pat McCool on A Matter of Days!
- Carol Boriskie on Prayer
- Pat McCool on A Matter of Days!
- Pat McCool on Another Day Closer!
- JDS Senior on Concrete work
- Oneida Higginbotham on Prayer
- Pat McCool on Another pic!
- Pat McCool on More pics
- Keys on Sanctity of Human Life
The first time I met Thomas was at a fundraiser dinner for Young Endeavors. We were invited by the Graves who spoke so highly of Thomas and his vision and heart for youth in Germany. I will never forget how touched I was when he got up to share his testimony and talk about the vision of Young Endeavors. I have never thought about going on an overseas mission. I’m more of a Jerusalem and Judea missionary. But for the first time ever, I could see myself going to Germany and standing on the street corners sharing the Gospel with hungry kids. His heart for them was so infectious! Since then we had come to know Thomas through the Sanctuary church family. What a great family you are. I remember Thomas coming to see the boys play flag football and basketball. We will all miss Thomas and know how much he loved people. I pray that the church will continue on in the same spirit of loving people to Christ. I pray for Erin and the kids, that they will always remember the love he had for them. I pray for the church leadership that the Spirit will flow through you and you will be an even stronger body. And remember, Jesus has already won the battle! Praise the Lord!
I did a few events with Thomas when I was touring with By the Tree. A few summers ago we played golf together and dreamed about what God could do through us. We watched the nba playoffs together after a camp in missouri several nights in a row at a pizza place. Thomas was a really cool guy to be around. He was genuine and I valued that in him. He had passion for days. Shared a lot of laughs with him in the short time I was with him, and now I share in the grief of the many lives he touched. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. You will be missed Thomas.
I traveled for a few years playing guitar for a worship leader named Jason Elam. We had the opportunity to work with Thomas on several different occasions. We had the privilege of building a close friendship with Thomas through the several years that we were together. God has never used an evangelist in my life the way He used Thomas. I can remember the summer that Thomas had just published “Do you want to go to the mountain?” The first time i heard the sermon i wept. I knew right then and there that i wanted to be someone that Jesus would choose to take with Him to the mountain. Every time i slip and fall in this life I still ask myself that very question. It has had a lasting impression on me. Thomas Young has had a lasting impression on me. He was a source of inspiration and wisdom. Thomas, i pray that you are resting high on the mountain this very minute, my friend.
Thomas was a preacher of the Gospel — a vanishing breed. We worked the harvest fields together for many years. He was a fire brand in the hands of a mighty God — used to bring MANY to saving faith. As Spurgeon said, he preached with “POWER, PATHOS and PASSION!” His legacy will endure. Many have already met him on the corner of Hallelujah Blvd. and Glory Ave. — thanking him for being faithful to the call. In memory — let us all, in the spirit of Aaron and Hur, lift up the hands of men of God everywhere, as they labor to preach the Gospel, often with private pain that is indescribable. This has happened to heroes of the faith throughout the ages. He has taken his place in the Hall of Faith. His legacy will stand. Our deepest prayers are with his family and the family of faith at The Sanctuary Fellowship.
Thomas and Erin helped me tremendously when I first moved to Houston last year. They paid for some unexpected moving costs and were instrumental in transitional time. I remember Thomas always had a lighthearted or funny comment that just lightened spirits during setup at the Sanctuary. What a valuable soldier for the Kingdom! We love you.
I am so thankful for a talk Thomas gave to the youth at First Baptist Sugar Land several years ago. The message he spoke to the kids affected me so strongly as an adult that I wrote my testimony in a letter to my father. It opened our relationship up to discuss faith in a way we never had before. I can still picture him giving that message. I wish I could have told him this in person. His energy for Christ was contagious, and that will live on through memories of him. I am praying for you Erin and the kids and The Sanctuary staff and congregation.
Thomas was truly one of the most amazing preachers I have ever heard. He was so excited and very animated. He was a teacher, that is what I loved about listening to him. I left with something to take with me everytime. God has a special place for Thomas and he is there right now. I will continue to pray for Erin and the kids. I will also continue to pray for everyone Thomas touched and also for the ones who never had a chance to hear or know him.
When I heard the news – that Thomas was gone. Memories flooded back to a wonderful season in our life! Thomas was interim pastor at The Met. We had a van load of kid’s go to Wed. night service- they came back laughing and loving God.
Thank you, Thomas for changing lives in this world.
Our hearts are filled with sadness and we mourn your passing.
I have always held a special place in my heart for Thomas, for it was through his passion for Jesus and obedience to God that he was used to speak to me regarding my eternal security. It was at a Wednesday night youth meeting at First Baptist Sugar Land, and I was standing up in the back with other parents as we worshiped. Thomas was to be our guest speaker. You see, I was a relatively new born again believer, and I struggled with the issue of whether or not I could lose my salvation. I grew up in a religion that taught you can lose this Gift, and the woman who was instrumental in leading me to Christ also held that belief. But a dear friend of mine that I studied the Bible with always argued the point with me, very convincingly. For probably the first 3-4 years of my new life in Christ, I struggled with this question constantly. I wanted to believe that God would never let go of me, and I continually prayed for His clarity on this issue. So there I was with the youth group that night and Thomas came up to speak. He looked at the kids and told them he was supposed to talk that night on another issue. He knew, however, that some of the kids had been asking questions that particular week, and he believed at the last minute that God was calling him to talk instead on eternal security for the believer. I perked up and scrambled to find pen and paper to write on and quickly found a seat. He began his teaching that night with his own testimony and for over 30 minutes, I cried into my notes as Thomas took us throughout scripture, showing us from God’s word that we cannot lose our salvation. The message that night was for ME, and it was as clear as if Thomas had sat me down in front of him and said, “Okay, listen up here Janan! God has heard your prayers and has sent me to show you the Truth of His Word!” That principal has been emblazoned on my heart forever! I know without a doubt I will see Thomas in heaven! My heart grieves at this time, and I am praying for his precious wife Erin and the children, for his family, friends and the church. Thomas, I am eternally grateful for your life!
Pastor Thomas preached at 1st Baptist Sugar Land on September 27, 1998. My wife, Carol, and I were both saved that day after Thomas preached! What a great day! I praise the Lord for Pastor Thomas and what he means for Carol & I! He will be greatly missed!
My wife and I met Thomas while working with the Rio Grande Children’s Home in Mission, TX. What drew us, and many others, to both him and Erin was their evident love for the Lord and people. A view years back, we had the pleasure of seeing them again Metropolitan Baptist Church in Houston, when he came as interim pastor for a short time. Immediately, the love and friendship was rekindled. He and Erin didn’t stay long and we lost touch again, to our loss. Thomas will be greatly missed by everyone touched by his life.
Erin and kids, we will be praying for the Lord’s continued presence and comfort during this time and in the future.
The one joy we have now is that this is not a final goodbye, but only a “see you later.”
Encountering Thomas Young whether on the street casually or from the pulpit…you knew it was something you would never forget. He encouraged, planted truth and loved unconditionally. He had one of those voices that follows you…not only would I remember what he preached or said in a casual conversation, I would hear it as though Thomas was speaking it again. For me, I believe it was his passion for Our Savior that came through over and over again. Just looking at him, I knew he had been where I had been…a sinner saved by Grace! Every conversation laced with a deep rooted joy because there was an understanding that no matter who we thought we had become or accomplished…we were simply sinners saved by Grace!
My daughter, Emilee had the opportunity to spend the night at the Young’s house on more than one occasion. Emilee contemplates relationships in her life with great care and is not quick to extend trust. Emilee has a very special father/daughter relationship with her dad so I knew the following statement came purely from her heart. Upon returning home one day from staying at the Young’s, she shared, “Mom, if I didn’t have a father, I would pick Mr. Thomas to be my father.”
I am deeply saddened that I will not see you again on this earth but am eternally grateful that I will see you again.
Thomas Young passionately loved God, and loved people. This was his life. In everything he did, in everything he said, and in everything he valued. He loved his Savior, his Creator, and his Redeemer with every breath and ounce of energy.
And as evidenced by all the stories so far here, he loved people no matter what and even at a cost to himself. He listened intently, never judged one’s shortcomings, and he believed and encouraged the work God was doing in others.
I will forever remember Thomas through many of the scripture passages i heard him preach on, as well as the crazy fun memories i experienced while serving with him, and through his many thomasism’s.
Particularly, i remember when i served with thomas while interning at frontliners, and almost every day he would begin by getting everyone to repeat with him a few times..
(with a straight face…) “Today……. (very even tone and demeanor) is going to be…. (now his voice would begin escalating and a HUGE smile would be coming over his face) a GREAT day!!”
pretty simple, but i still think about this almost every day. it shows the joy we have in our good Father, gratitude for the grace shown to us, and the hope that is only found in Jesus.
all of this still leaves me with tears, confusion, and anger at times, but through Thomas’ example, i will look to Jesus. and one day when i do see Jesus face to face, i can’t imagine Thomas being far behind.
I will miss you Thomas. But know that through your life, God has forever changed mine.
With tears and giggles mixed, I remember Thomas. When he first came to FBC Grapevine, we were all excited. He was always full of silly things like, “What do you do when it just won’t fall?” Who talks about that stuff?!?!?! Thomas. Because it makes teens laugh and like him; then he would have their full attention to tell them what God had laid on his heart for them to hear. I’ll never forget filling his office floor with Dixie cups filled with water shortly after he arrived in Grapevine. We did an impressive job, I must say. And when he opened his door and spilled all those cups of water, he was ready for revenge. He told us,”I don’t get even. I get ahead.” We were a bit concerned about what he would do to us. We found a verse in the Bible about revenge during the sermon one Sunday night. “‘Vengence is mine,’ thus saith the Lord.” When we told him that only God could avenge, his response was, “If that’s what it takes for you to memorize scripture, then good. Keep memorizing.” What an incredible, Godly man. Wouldn’t even kiss Erin before they got married to set a good example for us. What a Godly man! What a Godly man!
When we first began to attend the Sanctuary we where new believers and as soon as I heard Pastor Thomas preach about loving God and people I knew I wanted to hear more. His fire for the Word of God inspired me. I loved being challenged by him to do more, to reach out to people, to read God
I only had the honor of knowing Pastor Thomas Young for less than two years, but in such a small amount of time he made an impact and left an impression that will last a lifetime. The first day my wife Chandra and I visited the Sanctuary Fellowship at the Cinemark theater we had lunch with Pastor Thomas and Erin immediately after service. He was unlike any pastor I had ever talked to up to that point. He always said that he wasn
Thomas Young,
So many memories come flooding back. The first time I saw him, you knew he was powered by the Holy Spirit. I remember the day at Sugar Creek Baptist Church, he preached the Gospel Message so clearly, empowered, and intense, that I couldn
I met Thomas on Easter Sunday 2003. He was invited to come preach at the church that we had been visiting for a few months and are now members of. My husband was not saved and we had a 12-year-old son and one on the way. Thomas made such a dramatic impact on us that day, and as a result my husband and son were both saved. Our life was changed forever that day….because Thomas allowed God to work through him in a powerful way. We stayed in touch with Thomas and Erin through the years, and have had the privilege to get to know them personally. What amazing people they are. It is gut wrenching to think of the despair that Thomas must have been feeling, and I wish so much that he could have just felt all the love that so many of us have for him. Satan’s plan is to destroy Gods people and His work……we cannot let that happen. My prayer is the The Sanctuary Fellowship Church, will be stronger than ever before because of this. We must stand together against Satan in Jesus name, and Thomas’ death will not be in vain, and God as Thomas likes to state, “Will get all the Glory.” Thank you Thomas for what you have meant to my family. We will never forget you, and the work that you have done for the Kingdom. I cannot wait to see you in heaven and once again here you preach the word of God in your HYPERACTIVE way. You were trully one of a kind….we will miss you so much. God Bless you Erin.
Kathy Reynolds
I met Thomas at OBU. We shared a lot of great times together. I had the privilege of having Thomas share the Word of God with my church on occasion over the years. Each time God blessed us far beyond my expectations. I am deeply grieved. I pray that the God of all comfort will bring peace by the power of His Spirit to all who knew and loved Thomas. I pray that God will grant grace upon grace to Erin and the family.
Thomas was a great friend. I met Thomas almost 10 years ago when he was with Kelly Green at a crusade at a church I was serving at. He was passionate about preaching and seeing peoples lives changed. We had him back to that same church numerous times and his impact was incredible. We also spent many summers at student camps. He would bring his entire family and spend a few weeks with us in Destin. I was the staff coordinator of the camp and on the weekend he and Erin would buy dinner for the entire staff and have us over to their condo. We played golf 10-15 times and of course Thomas paid every time. My wife and I had dinner on numerous occasions with he and Erin and were so encouraged each time. Thomas was 110% committed to everything he did. Whether preaching, playing golf, talking theology or OU football Thomas could convince you of something just because of his passion. He and his best friend Joel have been personal friends for a long time and I would consider both of them mentors in my life. I learned much about true friendship as I listened and watched Thomas and Joel through the years. My heart breaks for Erin and the kids and the people of Sanctuary Fellowship. I learned what it meant to be a giver from Thomas. As I read many of these stories the same thing rings true….Thomas gave selflessly time and time again. Blessings and Peace on Erin and his beautiful daughters and incredible son. To Sanctuary Fellowship may the “God of peace who transcends understanding guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus.” I will miss dearly Thomas, but I am thankful for his friendship.
I preached camp for Thomas in the beginning days of evangelism for me. He was the same as any youth minister/evangelist I met in his passion, God giftedness, and charisma. But he was markedly different in his sincere desire for God to have His way. It was not about Thomas or his ministry, but really about the Glory of God. In the same vein, I knew Thomas loved me AND WAS A FREIND FOR FRIENDSHIP SAKE, not the more common “friend in the ministry” alot of us preachers have.
Over the past few years I have struggled with depression and addiction, and withdrew to virtual isolation. As I just recently began reaching out a mutual friend told me about this tragedy. I wish I would have called on Thomas, but even in the shock of loss I draw strength from his memory.
To you, Thomas, Brother in Arms. I will one day embrace you in the Presence.
My heart is so heavy-I just heard minutes ago and could not believe it. I met Thomas back in 1987 at OBU-wow what a guy. The room would light up when he came into it. He seemed to make time for everyone—even me. He sat one evening allowed me to share my heart with him about some family things and he shared with me. He was such a blessing. I left the school 1 1/2 years later and caught up with him when he visited my church here at FBC Moore and then again years later when he was in ministry doing a revival at a local church. Still he made time and encouraged me. It was then I got to meet the woman God gave him and to see his kids. We were all grown up with families of our own. I was so proud to see him doing what God called him to do, to use his gifts to serve and minister to the body and to lost souls. My heart goes out to his family, my prayers. My heart is sad but I pray the work that Thomas has done will go on through the lives he has touched. Thank you for a place we can share. My prayers are with you.
Pastor Thomas was one of the most beautiful, amazing, caring, loving, soul winning, zealous people I have EVER met–and probably will ever meet. He did everything with excellence, and with a big smile on his face. We mattered to him and his family was the world to him. My husband and I came from a church that was full of legalism and found out about the gospel of grace and embraced it with much joy! Pastor Thomas was the epitome of how a pastor should tend his flock. He loved us so much, he went out of his way for ANYONE–he never passed a homeless person without giving them food, clothes, attention. He taught the congregation to love people, to FORGIVE people, to not judge people–and not with mere words, but with his LIFE; it was not merely pulpit preaching. Pastor Thomas impacted my life and I will never forget him. I will always remember his sermons–those sermons were torch blows to the flesh, but soothing to the soul!! He meant so much to me and countless others, and the sanctuary congregation loves and misses him very much!! We are praying for sister Erin and the children, we love them! What the enemy intended for evil, God makes it work out for our good!! You fought the good fight my brother, now you are resting in the arms of our Savior, no more pain, no more sorrow. See you in heaven.
Hello Mac Fly! You will be missed! My heart breaks for your family. I know you wanted to go fishing with me so many times; you even bought a new rod and reel that you never got to use for one of our planned fishing trips. I will make sure your son will use it when I take him to the bay. Thomas, you were real and very transparent in your walk with our Lord. What impressed me most about you was your willingness to get your hands dirty with our church. How many preachers today will roll up carpets, move tables, pickup boxes, take out garbage after church? You touched so many people around the world and God used your life for the advancement of the Gospel! I am so thankful God put our family in the Sanctuary and had the pleasure to know you. Thank you for your passion for the church, I know you truly loved us. We will miss you, I look forward to seeing you again on the other side of eternity.
Thomas will always hold a special place in my heart because he led my two oldest children to the Lord. We had been visiting First Baptist Sugar Land just a few weeks when Thomas came in to preach in December ’99. My kids totally got the message of salvation because Thomas delivered it. If you know him, you know what I mean! My husband and I knew then that we had to help support Young Endeavors because Thomas was something special and God was using him mightily!
Fast forwarding several years, we heard Thomas and Erin were starting The Sanctuary Fellowship and our hearts were with them all the way….even though God did not release us to physically join the “Movement” right away. But when we did…WOW! Imagine teenagers excited about going to church! And, as my husband says, there’s no way you’re going to fall asleep during one of Thomas’ sermons. (hmm…had he done that before? *wink*)
Thomas has been a real encouragement to all of us. A few months ago he left a loooonng message on my voice mail praying and giving me encouragement in my ministry. It meant so much to me that I listened to it over and again when I was questioning everything. His impact on people’s lives is deep….even when he’s not aware. He genuinely cares. He is as real as it gets! A rare find! He used to always say, “Just give me the truth…I just want to know truth.” I appreciate that in him. I will miss him tremendously, but I will see him again!
I got to know Thomas through Frontliners, Back to School Youth Revivals and D-Now weekends. Every chance I could, I would have Thomas come speak to our students. It seemed like every time Thomas came, we baptized at least 30-40 students. Most of those salvations came on the night Thomas would give his personal testimony. Thomas was a great encouragement to me as a lowly youth pastor. I’ll never forget going to the mall with Thomas in Savannah Georgia and Thomas getting crowds of teenagers together to share his eyewitness account of Jesus Christ in the way only Thomas could. I have never met anyone else that could captivate students so well. The great thing about Thomas was that he used that gift to point everyone to the the true captivator… His Savior Jesus Christ.
One of my favorite “fun” memories was with Thomas at FBC Richmond Hill, Ga for a back to school youth revival. I had planned some crazy event where we bought an insurance policy and if someone made 3 consecutive putts from varying distances, they would win $20,000. The only problem was that I didn’t have anywhere to do the putting. It was cold and rainy outside, and I couldn’t find anywhere inside the church to set something up. I was just going to cancel that part of it, but Thomas was so determined to have it because he just knew it was going to bring out a bunch of lost kids. Thomas came up with this crazy idea of cutting a hole in the old sanctuary floor. You have to understand, the old sanctuary at FBC Richmond Hill was sacred. Nonetheless, Thomas and I found an inconspicuous corner and cut a whole through the carpet and wood floor. When the whole event was over, Thomas just told me to put the flagstand over the hole. No one ever noticed… until know I reckon. Many kids gave their lives to Christ that night. I think the hole was worth it. Thanks Thomas!
Another one of my fun memories with Thomas was riding with him in the rental cars. Hopefully there are no pending claims out there on his rental cars. After he would fly into town, his rental car became his toy… even in the church parking lot. He had mastered the donut using the emergency brake. I vowed to never buy a rental car because I saw the way Thomas drove them.
I could mention story after story, but I want to leave you with how Thomas impacted me personally the most. His passion and zeal for Christ coupled with his authentic life helped shape who I am today. God called me into church planting just about the same time Thomas went to plant The Sanctuary Fellowship. I am still in St. Louis, Mo planting a church here. Thomas influenced my life greatly and I am forever grateful for the part of his life that he shared with me. My prayers are with you, his family, his church, and his dear friends.
Thomas made a great impact on my life as a Christian. He was my youth minister at First Baptist Grapevine and our Wednesday night service was called Primetime. I never missed it and it was like nothing our church had ever seen before. Thomas was on fire for God and the youth department exploded under Thomas’ leadership. He reached hundreds and hundreds of kids in NE Tarrant County for Jesus Christ. I’m sure that when he met Jesus in Heaven the Lord said, “Well done my good and faithful servant!”
1 THESSALONIANS 4:13-18
But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words.
Pastor Thomas was the camp pastor my first year at church camp.
He really challenged us to grow, and to have an intimate relationship with God, to not just have a Sunday/Wednesday “relationship”, but an every second walk with God. I bought his book that week and read it, that was a 4 years ago, and a few weeks ago I decided to start reading it again. It’s really challenged me all over again, on another level, to grow more intimate with God, and to have those quiet and beautiful moments just between Him and I.
We met Thomas and Erin at Rio Bend when we moved here from Maryland to do foster care. They were such a great support to the kids in their chaotic lives, it gave them a sense of calmness. Hearing his tesimony gave them hope for their lives. We had one paticuliar girl who was dealing with so much and they were always there trying to find her the help she needed. What a comfort for us!
When they started The Sanctuary we started attending and what a “breath of fresh air”. Moving to another state, with no family and few friends, you learn very quickly who your God is in your life. I (Andrea) personally loved to hear Thomas’ preaching. I loved his zeal and excitement for God (and it wasn’t fake either)! I looked forward to going to church every Sunday with our kids. It was always hitting in our lives whether pertaining to one of our girls or even us. Both us being saved & living for God since our late teen years we have been around the block with different churches and pastors. Thomas was unique. My favorite sermon was on familiar bible verses, I learned things I had never heard before and I still have my notes jotted down in my bible.
To hear of this tradegy was shocking and heart wrenching. Our heart felt prayers go to you Erin, the children and the church family. We do not understand the “why” or the “how”, but God is a truely amazing Father who takes care of us all even during these “life storms”.
What can I say after reading how Thomas Young touched so many in great ways. The year 2009 has been a very hard year for me. Going to hear Pastor Thomas preach on Sundays has made the tough times easier. He always spoke the truth and never held anything back. I loved that about him. My heart is heavy and I will miss him so. He loved God with a passion that we all should have. I loved going to church again, I look forward to seeing you in heaven. God bless his family and I know God has great things in store for you. In Gods name.
What I remember most about Thomas was his love for the unadulterated word of God. While so many who call themselves pastors and preachers spout pablum and “skubalon”, Thomas remained faithful to the calling of Christ to preach “Christ and Him crucified”. Thomas’ preaching was often like a glass of cool, clear water in a dry and dusty desert of religion.
Thomas was so passionate about Jesus and sharing him with others. He had a dynamic way of speaking that made you stop and listen, and remember. He had a gift that can only be given from the lord. I am so sorry for Erin and the kids, and I cannot imagine what they are going through, but GOD knows, and GOD loves you, and GOD will carry you through this unimaginable sorrow. Please know that you are being lifted up and prayed over daily by everyone who was ever touched by Thomas. Scott Speer was my youth Pastor and he brought Thomas to FBC Richmond Hill to speak on a couple of occasions, and I know many lives were changed and touched forever. Lives were dedicated to God, and even surrendered to the ministry. WOW, what a legacy to leave.
I never met him personally, but he preached at one of the revivals my high school had two years ago and at one of the church camps I attented. I loved listening to him, he got down on my level, he never spoke like he was above me and he helped me to understand the Word so much better than I could have done on my own. I’m praying for his famly and friends, he was an amazing person.
To share “A” memory would be so hard to do, where does one start. I have known Thomas for over 20 years. I was on a mission trip when FBC Grapevine voted him in to be our youth minister and the mission team was a bit upset because we did not vote. After we returned it was rather interesting to get accustom to TY, the OU loving fool. During his tenure at FBCG quite a bit happened let me share:
1. Back to School Bash “Wet T-shirt Contest” – yeah that was his first summer event and a few fires were started for that one. He did have it in fine print it was supposed to be guys participating.
2. Camp – a. Joel’s car getting stuck in a ditch, b. trying to Nare off his mustache, c. throwing him in the lake after getting a few bruises, d. Water gun filled with liquid not water.
3. Ski Trip from HELL – His seniors made it to Ski Sunlight before he did and we took good care of him. We had some great discussions under the Colorado sky.
4. The Grey Grand AM and Maxi Pads – enough said
5. He would throw metal chairs for the heck of it.
6. A bright orange and blue sweat suite in the stands at a football game.
7. I was too sick to be an usher in Erin and Thomas’ wedding.
8. Summer camp and room raids.
9. God used TY for me to see the Joys of Christianity and solidify my calling into Ministry.
After we said a tearful good bye in Grapevine, TY and Erin moved to OKC. I sort of lost touch with them because we did not have a great invention like facebook or affordable cell phones.
I was trying to be like Thomas and went of OBU and love the campus but God had me cross paths with TY again. During my soph. year at OBU Thomas called me about an internship in McAllen TX. I wanted to work so at the end of the year my white, pink striped cav. was on its way to McAllen. I had no clue where it was but I went. My first meal was at Casa Del Taco and a Botona and fell in love with the Valley. While serving as a youth intern the things I remember:
1. The invention of an alter ego “THE BANDIT”.
2. Golf – FRAPPEN JIG, That would cause you to cus, Come on Thomas stop wearing a skirt.
3. Youth Camp with Rick Blackerby and the spiritual war fare that took place during that time.
4. The cats.
5. HEB seasoned fajitas – Chris Estes should remember that one.
6. Morgan young
7. Thomas resigning and headed back on the road.
After a few years God allowed Thomas and I work together at The Sanctuary Fellowship. Though being in a church plant is rough, I would not want to get my first experience in church planting with anybody else. My time at TSF:
1. Did you know you could kill a snake with a trimmer.
2. Thomas loved my wife’s sandwiches in the middle of July.
3. Fun long meetings in Rosenberg.
4. Watching baptisms in a movie theater with Halloween advertised outside.
5. The grace of God moving in Cinemark period because of the faithfulness of TY and Erin.
Though we left physically, I have never forgotten our time with TSF. I will miss you Thomas but the wake of what God did through your life will continue even for generations to come.
One of my favorite memories of Thomas is as a daddy. Morgan was in the sixth grade at our school, and it was her birthday. Thomas was near the end of the load-out line in his Jeep with windows down and rooftop off. He was yelling at the top of his lungs, “Happy Birthday, Morgan!” He yelled it for the entire time he was in line. Of course, Morgan acted as though she was totally embarrassed, but the other kids were telling her, “That’s a cool dad!” She may have acted embarrassed at first, but I think she got into that Jeep so proud to be his daughter. That solidified Thomas’ reputation as the coolest dad in that class!
His legacy will always be twofold for me; first, as the man of God who unselfishly sacrificed time and energy to grow the kingdom, one soul at a time. But, I will also remember the man who was a great, funny, loving daddy who adored all three of his children more than anything else. It was a privilege to know him, a joy to watch him with his kids, and a true honor to be in ministry with him – even in a small way. I praise God for him and all he did!
Psalm 46:1-3 ~
1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, 3 though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.
Thomas…I love and miss you. I will hold to the Thomas who took the WORD and really made it personal. I will hold to the Thomas who challenged us to know our ID in Christ, not just to be satisfied with deliverance from the flames. I will hold to the Thomas who holds to Jesus and loves his wife and family. Erin, you are loved beyond words. Always remember that, even when it is dark and painful. Jesus, thank you for the Young family. Embrace them for all times. Romans 8:28-39
Thomas and I went to Oklahoma Baptist together and he became my friend and my brother. Though I haven’t talked to him in years I was devastated to hear about his death. My heart is with his family.
Our neighbor; our friend; our Pastor-
How we love the Young family. We remember moving into our home in River’s Edge two years ago. The family stopped by and hurried through our home, through every room and up the stairs. We knew Thomas was praying over and blessing our home! I think they were more excited than we were. Thomas loved the community and the people in it. He truly wanted the best for everyone. He belived in prayer and he believed in miracles! We will remember Mugz and catching a quick chat before going our separate ways. We will remember the red jeep pulling up to get the girls for youth or passing on 359 and exchanging a quick wave. He seemed to be everywhere! Thomas had a zeal for life – loud music and silly singing – making a joke – talking about OU. He was a delight to be around and Ken and I and the girls just loved him to pieces, especially his sense of humor. We remember health trials – Thomas and Erin stopped to pray and rejoiced when God brought complete healing. If you needed Thomas, he was there. Thomas was a unique friend and we will miss him. We know Thomas is with our heavenly Father. Our prayer now is for Erin, Morgan, Graham and Claudia and for God to bring complete healing as they greive this loss and that their joy be restored. We serve a big God, a forgiving God!! There are many mysteries in life and we must trust God in the days ahead. He knows all, We know and understand little. Peace and Grace to you Erin, Morgan, Graham and Claudia. Peace and Grace!!
Thomas was far more than my pastor
I cannot think about my teenage years, my home church or my spiritual journey without thinking of Thomas. My first encounter with him was at a Frontliners crusade in Tampa, Florida as a 14 year old child. His teaching inspired me and gave me a fresh and lasting zeal for Christ. After that, we continued to run into one another at various Frontliners locations each summer and his almost yearly visit to my home church, Cedar Crest in West Monroe, Louisiana. What was amazing to me is that he remembered me every time, and took time to talk with me, laugh with me and encourage me.
I loved to hear Thomas speak. I loved his stories, his humor, his energy and his crazy made-up slang. I heard him speak so many times that I heard most of his messages and stories multiple times, but they never failed to bring conviction and encouragement to my heart, proof that the Holy Spirit was at work in him. He taught this reserved, shy and self-conscious girl that it was okay to be excited about Jesus, radical in the faith. He taught me how to approach a stranger and share the gospel with them. I eventually lost count of the people I had led to the Lord using the methods he taught me. At a local youth event for our city, he challenged us to carry a real, physical cross to school as a representation of our faith. My dad built an almost 3 foot tall cross. I carried it to school the first day of my junior year, and was told I had to leave it at home. It was large and sturdy enough to be considered a weapon. Thank you, Thomas, for getting me into the only trouble I ever was in during my entire public education. I carried a greater weapon-my Bible-instead. I thought Thomas would have approved.
Years ago, I probably had Thomas up on a pedestal, where no human being belongs. As a teen, it is difficult to separate the teacher from the Word. Since then, I have learned that preachers/teachers/evangelists/etc. are human beings too, and are as capable of wrong doing as any other sinner in need of Christ. As wonderful and godly as he was, Thomas had moments in which he was not perfect. The summer I was a Frontliners intern, he prophesied before several of my fellow interns that I would marry a preacher. That didn’t happen. Prophecy wasn’t Thomas’ gifting, it seems. I have also come to learn over time that our imperfections allow more room for Divine Grace. We see Divine Grace at work in all aspects of Thomas life and in his passing as well. Here is what I know for sure–I know that Thomas knew, loved and served the Lord for all of his Christian life. I know that Thomas was used by God to work in the lives of COUNTLESS children, teenagers and adults. I know that Thomas is in Heaven, singing unending praises to the King of Kings. I know that Thomas was a soul winner, and will be one of the brightest stars shining in the final battle between God and evil on earth, a battle he will win.
I also know that God’s word does not return unto Him void. Thomas delivered that Word to me many, many times, and his presence on this earth has forever changed my life and testimony. Thank you, Thomas. We are all looking forward to seeing you again.
I did not have the pleasure of knowing Thomas as intimately as many of you. The first time I met him was in his home. Erin and my wife, Michele, were friends from MOPS and they had invited us over for dinner. I was a relatively new Christian and I remember being somewhat shocked when Thomas told me he was a pastor. He did not fit my preconceived idea of a pastor. He was too normal; too cool. Over the years that followed, I had the pleasure of seeing Thomas on several occasions at his house. I always knew he was a pretty special guy, but I didn’t realize how truly special he was until I heard him preach. The passion with which he delivered a message was unlike anyone else. Thomas, I wish I had the joy of knowing you better. I know you were a good man and I know the this world will miss you. Erin and the kids will remain in our prayers.
I personlly did not know Thomas but because God used him in such a powerful way, I have the blessing to be part of a church pastored by one of his mentored. I also have the honor to have a sister who knew him and lived because of his love and guidance. I know the dispair Thomas battled and it grieves me the Body is without this friend/father/pastor/brother. I thank God every day I was reached before it was too late. May His comfort and blessings be with TFS and Thomas’ family.
Love in Jesus always,
Kimberly
Los Ebanos, TX
My memory is of the Young FAMILY! Our family so enjoyed the Young family! Morgan was Catherine’s FIRST BEST FRIEND! Catherine even named her first dog after Morgan, which is quite the compliment from a 3 year old! We loved playing together and enjoying life together! Thomas and I were both OKIES and both OBU alum. We were Oklahoma lovers and fast friends because of our love for the Sooners! Erin, you were BEAUTIFUL, ALWAYS! So “sparkly and shiny”! Those are SERIOUSLY 2 words that immediately come to mind when I think of you! Another word is PRECIOUS! You were always kind! IMHO, Kindness is WAY underrated! I think you are an amazing woman! I am so thankful to have known you! I grieve for you! I have had some massive worries the past few days of my own, but YOUR grief has been my focus! Pretty much all I can think of! I love you! I miss you and I am here if you need me!
Erin,
Bruce and I met you and Thomas at the YMCA when our sons played baseball together for the first time. We remember when you lived in Pecan Grove and then decided to move to River’s Edge. Over the years we saw you from time to time at 9′ers and in and around the town of Richmond. I remember one time we ran into and you had talked about starting your own church and how excited you were about it. At the time we didn’t know much about your family but knew we always thought of your family as being very sweet and caring. To hear about Thomas’ passing was hard for us to believe at first. But I believe the lord works in mysterious ways and uses his chosen people to work through others. I belieive he has a plan for every person on earth. From reading all the comments and looking back at to what you and Thomas have done for so many people speaks for itself. You have changed and saved the lives of so many that were lost and needed guidance. Our prayers are with you and your family and may God Bless You!
Bruce, Kanda, Blake, and Alexis Palmquist
Oh Thomas, where do I start. Just reading all of the other posts is such a reminder of how great a blessing he was to so many.
When Thomas accepted the call to be Youth Minister at FBC McAllen, Erin in tow, when I was in sixth grade. Since both of my parents were involved in the youth department I was brought in early and Thomas sure did make an impact from the start. Being so young at the time naturally a lot of what I remember were the silly things: toilet paper wars, Bisquick in yards (by the way Erin, if you never found out who was responsible for that one I hereby confess. Naturally I did have help…) One time he pranked us back by calling the police after we’d chalked and toilet papered the house they were staying in and for a little while denied that he knew us!
Thomas brought down an intern, Bryan Gilmore, who as “The Bandit” ransacked bedrooms for the laughter (and embarassment) of others. Bryan has since become part of the family, and the RGV, how blessed we are that Thomas saw the potential in a young college student.
Thomas was loud, proud, and I distinctly remember watching Erin’s quiet grace through it all and realizing how blessed he was to have her! Perhaps his most enduring (funny) impact on my life was his use of the phrase “Goober Ticket”. Literally generations of people in my family will have to put up with being called a Goober Ticket with no idea what it actually means.
Thomas didn’t just bring the funny however. It was through him that I truly came to know what it meant to have a relationship with the Lord. It was through his ministry that I participated in my first evangelical missions trip, and at one very low point, he literally saved my life.
After God called them to minister elsewhere we lost touch for several years. I moved to Houston in 2000 for college and shortly thereafter my home life fell apart. In many ways it had been an act of “keeping up appearances” for several years, but when my father first attempted suicide the cat was out of the bag. I was young, on my own, mad at God, penniless and frightened beyond words. Somehow, I forget how exactly…though I imagine it was just God’s grace, I found out that Thomas and his family lived in a suburb of Houston and shortly thereafter was in their home eating dinner. His and Erin’s faith, combined with my Mother’s, helped to give me peace and restore my soul, and gave me the desire to reconnect with the Lord and my rock and helper.
After a few more years, a few more failed attempts, and other trials and tribulations, my father successfully took his own life two and a half years ago. Hearing about Thomas’ own end just cuts the wound open fresh and through this tragedy Thomas has once again (inadvertently) directed my heart and mind to the comfort of the arms of our heavenly father, the only one who can give peace and make sense of the madness of this world.
I and my family understand much, much too well the pain, confusion and grief you must all be feeling. But I do want to add that there is, underneath the pain, a very small sense of relief. At least for us there was. For a mind to have been so tormented that, no matter the cause, or for how long, suicide was its release…those of us who have the peace of knowing that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord know that they are no longer suffering. In my case years of my father suffering ended tragically, and of course we didn’t want it to happen, but we knew he had Christ as his Savior and even though we were grieving his soul was finally at rest. The separation isn’t permanent, he’ll be waiting for us one day “when we all get to heaven.”
On behalf of my whole family, here’s one last, loud, WAZZUP! Thomas. We love you too Erin, Morgan, Graham and Claudia,
The Musser Family
Lisa Musser and Patricia (Musser) DeGroot
I remember meeting Thomas the first time I went to church camp in 2004. He loved the phrase “Ahonkinamen!” and wore that shirt around everywhere during that camp!
Through the power of Jesus working in Thomas’ life, I gave my life to Jesus that week in one of Thomas’ sermons. Thomas is a HUGE reason why I gave my life to the Lord. I will always remember him for that.
I loved his zeal and passion for Jesus. He encouraged me to live a “radically normal” (as Thomas would put it) life. He challenged me to “go to the top of the mountain”. Goodness, Thomas, you inspired me in so many ways. You are greatly missed.
Babs Batten
Humble, TX
I met Thomas while attending Oklahoma Baptist University. I was prone to debate back in those days. Thomas and I would have an intellectual debate from time to time. I wish I would have loved him more back in those days. I am thankful for the challenging discussions, but am regretting passing over the most important thing…love.
I met Thomas through Kelly Green and Frontliners. He truly had a passion for the lost. He was extremely non-typical. I loved his zeal for life, for his friends, and for his family. That raspy, fast talking Texan who would share Jesus with anyone and everyone will be what I remember about Thomas.
If you ever rode in a rental car with Thomas, that is another memory! Let’s just say, he is the reason you would never purchase a rental car. We left a Frontliners meeting and were going through the church parking lot when Thomas thought it would be fun to see just how many spins would could make! My face was plastered to the window.
I do not understand the troubles of this world but I do know who holds all the answers. I am praying for the Young family and the church family.
JD Simpson
I heard Thomas speak many times while I was in high school at different events and once a couple of years ago as an assistant youth leader at SuperWow. I remember hearing him speak about “Do you want to go to the mountain?” His humor and genuineness made him a great teacher and he spoke truth and life into thousands of students lives. I will always remember the challenge he gave and the impact he had on my life and on the lives of the youth I took to hear him speak.
I’ll be praying for the family and wish them God’s blessings throughout their lives, and want to let them know what an impact Thomas had on my life and the lives of others.
God bless
I had the privilege of getting to know Thomas as he filled in as the interim youth pastor at The Met in Houston, TX. Wow…I remember going home each Wednesday night thinking, “How did he get so much out of that one little verse?” As a young and inexperienced Sunday school teacher, I developed a whole new appreciation of what it meant to “teach” from the Bible.
I can’t stop thinking of what it must have been like to be a child of Thomas Young…never a dull moment! A man filled with energy and excitement. I remember him telling a story about Graham flushing something down the toilet (might have been a cell phone or was that another funny story???). Everyone was laughing so hard! He was an excellent storyteller and communicator.
Morgan, Graham and Claudia, hold on to these 100+ examples of how your father touched the lives of so many people. May his legacy live on through each of your lives as you continue to follow our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.