Our Pastor
The Rev. Dr. Arthur D. Thomas
Pastor Art arrived as pastor July 1, 2017. Although a native of Richmond, he served pastorates for about 25 years in Maryland where he was a spiritual director for the Walk to Emmaus weekends. He is now glad to be back in Henrico. He has taught part-time at Wesley Theological Seminary, Washington, D.C. since 1992 in the field of Spiritual Formation and Church History. On Thursday mornings he serves as chaplain of the Order of St. Luke the Physician at its healing services at River Road United Methodist Church. At Willis he teaches the adult Sunday School classes, confirmation classes, and adult study electives in addition to the joy he experiences preaching and providing pastoral care. He is very blessed to serve such a loving congregation with members of all ages with a rich music program.
He received his B. A. from the College of William and Mary; M. Div. from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary; M.A. from Wesley Theological Seminary; and Th. M. and Ph.D. from Union Presbyterian Seminary.
Rich History | Bright Future
Nestled in the countryside of eastern Henrico County amidst heritage farms and fallow battlefields lies Willis United Methodist Church. Founded before 1803, Willis has served to make and nurture disciples of Jesus Christ for over two centuries.
We strive to live into our mission statement:
"Willis UMC exists to be God's instrument in finding, connecting, and transforming people into faithful disciples of Jesus Christ."
The church building was first built in its current location in 1803 and has been witness to much local history. On New Year's Eve 1946 the building was ravaged by fire and rebuilt the following year, as a testament to the power of God who sustains us through all manner of trials and tribulations. The congregation at Willis is faithful and has long persisted to do God's work in our community.
Today, new communities are springing up in the community around Willis Church. And as the county has grown, so has Willis United Methodist Church. Today we are a strong but small congregation of less than 150 people. Our worship attendance averages about 50-60 people and we are active in ministry in many ways.
We hope that you will come worship with us and consider becoming part of the Body of Christ at Willis United Methodist Church.
We are located in the eastern portion of Henrico County.
From Route 60 East:
- Turn SOUTH onto Technology Blvd
- Turn right onto Memorial Drive
- Pass Washington Memorial Park Cemetery
- Cross railroad tracks and continue to the stop sign
- Turn left onto Charles City Road and follow to the next stop sign
- Go straight through the intersection
- Church will be on your right
From Route 5:
- Turn NORTH onto Willis Road (Rt. 156)
- Go about 3 miles, the church will be on your left
