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!
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When I heard the news, memories came flooding back of those 9 months Thomas was interim for the youth ministry at The Met in Houston, Tx. I will never forget the wednesday night he took me and a few other students to a chinese restaurant because I had never had it before. Though we only saw him on Wednesday nights, in those 9 months he did more to our youth ministry than most people could have imagined. He lifted people’s spirits, encouraged a life of passion, and grew our youth group closer together. It was enough for us to build a bond with someone who deeply loved the Lord. I will never forget walking past him on Senior Sunday, we were all thrilled to see he had come back just to see us walk across the stage.
Thomas was an inspiring man who left inspiration and a passion for the Lord to each person he spoke to. I am sincerely heartbroken to hear of this great loss for so many people, especially his family both wife and kids and The Sanctuary Fellowship. No words can quite make this situation comprehendible, but it is through the deep love of Christ and His grace that those closest to Thomas can push through this time. My prayers as well as sorrow is poured out to everyone during this time, and my prayer is that we can see the hope in such a tragedy. The impact Thomas made on so many people throughout his life is one that is unforgettable and what makes us rejoice.
May God’s love and peace be with you.
Thomas came to our church to lead several DNow weekends, Woodmont Baptist Church in Florence, Alabama. He did a fantastic job and challenged our people to grow in their relationship to the Lord. Our teenagers including our children enjoyed Thomas’ ministry among us. Only God knows the number of lives that have been touched through his ministry. I will always be thankful for his clear gospel message and challenge to “Go to the Mountain with the Lord.” Our prayers will be for his family and church. Blessings in Jesus Name.
Thomas was the preacher at a youth camp when in 1998. He led me to the Lord at that camp!
In 2007 my fiancee and I were living in Atlanta, Georgia. I came to Houston to visit my mom and she was attending the newly founded Sanctuary Fellowship. When I saw who her pastor was, I was ecstatic! After the service she introduced me to Thomas. I said, “You probably don’t remember me, but about 10 years ago, you led me to the Lord at a youth camp.” He shook my hand, smiled, and said, “It was 9 years ago.” That BLEW ME AWAY! Who remembers that stuff? Thomas Young does. That’s the kind of people loving person, Thomas was.
I went back to Atlanta and I told Roy that we needed to move to Houston, we have to go to that church! We moved back that week. We went to church, I introduced Roy to Thomas. Thomas asked what we were doing because he’d like to go to lunch with us. We said we’d love to, but we have a moving truck to unload. He asked what time we were doing that. We replied with, “all day, it’s a BIG truck”. He smiled, as usual, looked at his watch, then told us if we could wait until 2 o’clock, he’d be there with a bunch of men and we’d get it knocked out. Roy couldn’t believe it! He hadn’t known Thomas for 10 seconds, and he was going to give up his Sunday afternoon to help us. Most pastors don’t even shake your hand after they preach, let alone show up and help you do a hard job that you need help with. Every time the church had a project, big or small, he was right there in the mix to get the job done. Now that’s a leader!
Thomas also wrote our wedding vows and married us. He will be greatly missed!
Thomas was the speaker at the two middle school crusades that I have attended in my two years of middle school, and Thomas truly changed my life.He made me a better christian, and his messages helped me find the true christ inside of me. I owe so much to Thomas he has honestly changed my life. You will be missed Thomas. I love you.
<3
It is hard to decide which memory of Thomas to share. Thomas was the youth minister at FBC Grapevine before I was old enough to be a part of it. However, my parents taught seniors in Sunday school and my older sister was involved so I was allowed to tag along. My first memory of Thomas is when the youth group returned from camp with wild stories of a burping contest that Thomas had started, and won. I remember his and Erin’s wedding, Erin’s song she sang, Thomas’ tears and the giant lipstick covered smile he gave the audience after he kissed his bride. Thomas played a large role in my life through Young Endeavors and Frontliners; it was my favorite youth trip every year. I remember how packed those sanctuaries would get every summer, full of eager young people ready to listen to God’s word and go share it. Thomas inspired us all with his endless pursuit of the Lord and his passion to share it. I still have all of the workbooks from my Frontliner trips; every now and then I go through and read the sermon notes I had jotted down. I’m always amazed at how God was able to use Thomas to deliver his word in a way that youth could understand, learn from and get passionate about. There is one set of notes that always makes me smile and they start with this “God is ready to rock your world, smoke your chili, and yank your chain. Are you ready to let him?”
So many wonderful comments and memories of a man I never met, yet wish now I had.
God brought Thomas Young into my church and my life at exactly the right time (Isn’t that just like God?) and, Thomas, he delivered. I had not, to that point in my life and as a matter of fact, since, met anyone quite like him. The love that he had for our Savior didn’t flow from him….it GUSHED from him. He shook my traditional Southern Baptist church UP and helped to shake many of us out of complacency. PRAISE GOD! He encouraged me to “go to the mountain” and I will be forever grateful. My husband and I fell quickly in love with Thomas Young and his ministry and have followed and supported him since. We both often listen to his podcasts and are always blessed. Thomas Young will be greatly missed. Our prayers go out to his family (Erin and the children, as well as his Sanctuary family and all of those who loved him so……your/our lives will never be the same).
Frank and I met Thomas and Erin at First Baptist Sugarland back in 2000-2001. We were both so blessed by their love, enthusiaism and passion for the Lord. We became friends and then were blessed to be on the board of Young Endeavors. Thomas and Erin loved others with the love of the Lord. Thomas preached with such passion and with the power of the Holy Spirit that you could not help but be touched and changed. Our hearts are saddened; our comfort is that he is with the Lord and we will see him again.Erin, Morgan, Graham and Claudia..we love you..you are in our thoughts and prayers and in our hearts.
Thomas touched my life is such a huge way. He was the first person I had ever witnessed who was so excited and energetic about everything God had done in his life. He taught me so much about knowing God more deeply than I could ever even imagine. The looks on the faces of people at my church at the time were amazing because a lot of them seemed to fall in love with him as each night passed. I now carry and ESV bible because of Thomas. I own his book “Do you want to go to the Mountain?” It seems Thomas has answered that now for all of us now. I loved him very much and will miss him immensely. I have never seen anyone who loved steak as much as he did.
I will be praying for Erin, their children and The Sanctuary Fellowship in the days ahead. Please know that my life was changed by you sharing your husband, father, and pastor with me and my family (my wife is post 107 above). God used Thomas in a mighty way. I pray with time we will all understand why he left us all so soon. God bless you all.
As I read through these memories, it is astounding to me that Thomas made every single one of us feel like we were the most important people in the world to him… and with the singular exception of his family, we were. His influence, his legacy will truly be generational. I’m convinced that people who are not even born yet will benefit from the love that Thomas demonstrated to us all. Teens who laughed and loved with Thomas have and will become adults and parents. Teenagers and adults alike: no one was unimportant to Thomas. He exactly followed Christ’s model in that regard.
It’s been said that the greatest ability one can have for God’s Kingdom is availability. Thomas was exactly that for me. He never turned me down when I needed to talk or pray; vent or scream. He prayed with me; he helped me restructure my daily life to include early morning Bible study. He let me borrow books from his seminary classes (that he probably secretly knew I’d never fully comprehend). Thomas didn’t just read God’s Word. He lived it. He studied it. He could dig deep down into the original Greek or Hebrew of a seemingly innocuous verse and as you can imagine come up with a “WOW. THIS IS HUGE.” I loved that!
Dear Thomas, Linda and I love you. And we will miss you… but only for a season, because we will see you again. Until then we will pray for your family and the church you planted; for the lives you have touched, and yes — for ourselves. I pray that we will all be as bold and boisterous; as unashamed and undaunted as Thomas Young when it comes to the Gospel of Jesus Christ!
I live in Okla. City and have known Thomas for many years. He was so on fire for the Lord and touched so many lives with his few years. Much Love to Erin and the wonderful 3 children.
Erin If there is any way I can help you in the future let me know.
Titus 2:13
We’ve known the Young family for over 10 years. Our hearts are broken, but what a gift God gave the body of Christ when he loaned us Thomas for a little while. How can one man have so many close friends–he loved with the love of Jesus! Thomas was passionate about his God and people and that passion was contagious. May we all love others and speak the truth boldly the way he showed us. He encouraged us to “go to the mountain”. We are blessed with the confidence that we will see him again in heaven.
Erin, Morgan, Graham, and Claudia–we love you and pray that God will keep you in the palm of His hand.
My family and I have known the Thomas Young Family for about 6 years, have had them in our home in Missouri City and have grown to know and love them. I have learned a lot from his teachings.I have used his illustrations and examples in teaching our Bible class in Kerrville.Erin calls me her Sunday School teacher even though she was in my class for only 8 weeks. One thing Thomas said and I quote it often is:: ” hardships in life are just a process in the growth as a Christian”.You can tell a lot about Thomas by reading his book “Do you want to go to the Mountain?”
Thomas, you are on that mountain now with Jesus. We will not forget you until we see you face to face with Jesus Christ our Lord.
My husband and I have had the priveledge of serving on staff with Thomas and Erin at The Sanctuary Fellowship for the past two and a half years. Thomas was one of the most sincere, genuine Christians I have ever met. He really loved God with his whole heart. I could repeat what all of you have already written about his incredible passion and committment, but what was always so astounding to me was how he loved people. He really cared, even about the small things. We have a 13 month old son, Gray, and one day I had him up at the church office with me. He was just a few months old at the time and was starting to put some weight on his little legs when you stood him up (something only a mommy usually gets excited about.) Thomas LOVED babies and when he saw my son do that, he noticed. He exclaimed, “Wow! Look at him! He can stand!” He really got excited about it and the next time I saw Erin, she said, “Thomas told me Gray can stand now!” That was such a tiny thing, but it mattered to him because he loved us, and he loved our son. He knew how to make you feel important and loved. What mattered to you mattered to him.
Thomas was also there during a very difficult time in our life. In December of 2007, we lost our first child due to a miscarriage. I’ll never forget the drive to the doctor’s office. Our phone rang on the way, and it was Thomas. He asked us to put him on speaker phone, and he prayed for us on the way there. Later that night, he showed up at our house with dinner. He spent some time talking and praying with us. He asked God to comfort us and give us peace, and then he said the part that really ministered to my heart. He thanked God that there was another worshipper around His throne in Heaven. I had not seen it from that perspective. I could only see my grief, but he was right. Even though I wish Thomas was still here with us now, I will choose to thank God that Thomas is worshipping around His throne in Heaven. I’m looking forward to joining him there someday.
Thomas had so an impact on my life and my churches life! He was coming to speak at my church for over 6 years. I learned so much from him and he always left me yearning for more! I always felt on fire when I heard him speak! He just preached it like it was and didn’t sugar coat anything! “Go to the Mountain” Thats what my mom said when I called her with the terrible news that he was no longer with us! Im going to miss him but I know for a fact he is in a better place! Its shouting time in heaven! I will miss you until I see you in Heaven! R.I.P Brother!
I met Thomas several years ago when my parents joined in the begining of the Sanctuary Fellowship. I will never forget watching Thomas’s care and concern for people. He had a big enough heart that he cared and loved everyone he met. My husband and I decided after several visits to the church, during our engagement, that we didn’t want to miss out on the movement and vision that God gave to Thomas. Thomas’s wisdom, and knowledge of the scripture were incredible. What made him stand apart though, was how he lived the gospel in front of all of us. He loved Jesus Christ more than anything and challenged the rest of us to do the same.
He and Erin have been very dear friends and mentors to us. They always knew just what to say and do to show us their love. I will forever be grateful to have had Thomas in my life. I cannot wait to see you in Heaven!
I’m at a loss for words…the memories and thoughts of this incredible evangelist, man on fire for God are overwhelming. His spirit, energy, tenacity and incredible heartfelt love for the Lord is unmatched. He was vital in many of my friends accepting Christ and was the epitamy of an incredible Man of God. My thoughts and prayers go to Erin and his beautiful children as they find the ways to grasp this tragedy – knowing God is right there with them, in them, walking before them and guiding their path. May they find solice in His Love.
You know its hard for me to put my testimony into a short paragraph…but i’ll try. Thomas came to lead a weekend youth retreat at Crossroads Baptist Church in Fort Myers,FL just a few years ago. He spoke about Matthew 17 and the Mount of Transfiguration. He thought he was there to challenge the youth to “go to the mountain” but what he did was break down the walls of resistance this 40 something year old man had so carefully constructed brick by brick all of his life. I was saved that day, through the team efforts of Thomas, my prayerful and loving wife Robin and My Awesome God. What you cant see is how hard it is to type this while tears fill my eyes and my heart aches for Thomas’s wife, kids and all those whose lives have ever been touched by his. Thomas went to the mountain, he worked and lived there. He challenged us all to do the same. He rests in the loving arms of Jesus and hears the words “well done ,Thomas”.
I didn’t get to know Thomas very well or for very long. He was the Youth Pastor at FBC Grapevine for just a short time while I was there, but what a time it was! I remember going on a youth retreat and stopping at McDonald’s, when Thomas got to the counter he not only asked about and was interested in the young man’s life, but shared the Gospel with that young man. That’s how he was with God’s Word, he wanted everyone to hear it and believe
I’m thankful that God placed Thomas in my life, he was such a great influence in my walk with Christ, and along with many others formed me into the man I am today.
Like the others before me, I too could share dozens of meaningful and fun memories of Thomas. Being in the ministry gives you a comraderie that is hard to describe and we did indeed have that with Thomas. I am remembering the many times he stayed with us in our home so that he didn’t have to stay in a hotel. Thomas was always a gracious guest and only asked for one thing when he would come – peach cobbler! He was very passionate about his ministry but equally passionate about his family. When he was away from them he missed them desperately and would talk endlessly about them. Erin, Thomas never failed to brag about you to us. He was so proud of you and your accomplishments. He would always tell us what project you were involved with and how you could make anything look beautiful. Morgan, Graham, and Claudia….your father always bragged about the three of you too. Even though we didn’t get to know you as well in person, your dad kept us up to date with what was going on in your lives. To say he loved you and thought that you were the three most wonderful children in the world is an understatement. He truly adored each of you and your mom. We loved Thomas like a brother and his loss is a crushing blow. Our love and prayers go with you and will continue to go with you in the days to come.
At a time in my life when evangelism was paramount, when I sought to follow the command to go and make disciples yet my spiritual giftedness was in other areas, Thomas Young came to FBC McAllen. PTL who brought Thomas! I herded people his way & their eternities will testify to the difference made. It takes the body working together, that’s the church, that’s God’s plan. I pray the Lord has risen anew a powerful evangelist in the midst of this tragedy.
I remember one Weds night, Thomas was enraged but impassioned, he started tearing out pages of the Bible and challenged his shocked and solemn group to consider what their life Bible might look like if we left intact what our actions said we believed. I had a friend saved that night. The unwatered down version of the gospel is unquestionably more powerful than what is frequently offered.
Thank you Thomas, thank you Erin and family.
Like the others before, so many fun and meaningful memories come flooding back when thinking of Thomas. There is a camraderie between those in the ministry that is difficult to explain and we definitely had that with Thomas. His loss weighs very heavy upon us. He stayed in our home many times when in the area. Thomas always preferred to stay with us so that he did not have to stay another night in a hotel. Thomas was a very gracious guest and only asked for one thing when he stayed with us…..peach cobbler!! He was very passionate about his ministry and equally as passionate about his family. Erin, Thomas loved you and was so very proud of you and your accomplishments. In his eyes, you were the best at anything and everything you did. He never failed to brag about you and often said that you could make anything into something beautiful. Morgan, Graham, and Claudia…..your father also bragged on each of you. While we did not get to know you as well personally we certainly felt as if we did!! Your father always kept us up to date with your current activities. To say that your dad loved you and was proud of you is an understatement. He truly adored you. Our prayers and our love go with you during this difficult season and will continue to go with you in the days ahead. Never forget we are always available to you. Mary & Greg Clark
Our walk with Christ began in 2007 in the Cinemark Rosenberg because of this awesome man GOD used named THOMAS YOUNG.
As we layed in bed thinking of the wonderful words he spoke to us tears flowed down my face, remembering THOMAS’ voice and how he always said “HEY YOU IN THE CHEAP SEATS” , remembering the passion THOMAS showed with his body language the excitement that he showed when he spoke of GOD…it only made my husband want for more. I am very happy to say that my husband has truly became that man of GOD, the husband I so desired, by the way if THOMAS is watching I hope he smiles when he sees CHRIS lift his hands for the LORD with no shame what so ever. GOD used Thomas and Erin to show Chris and I how to love each other, how to love people unconditionally.
Thank you THOMAS and Erin for loving us !
Thomas Young came to my church and preached and also led Frountliners both year I attended. Though I was not old enough to participate the first year along with a few of my friends, he allowed us to sit in a learn the training that he was teaching the older students in the area. He made us feel like we were someone important. We learned that no matter what age, race, or denomination we could share the truth of Jesus to the world. Though I didnt like to share face to face the gospel he let me understand that I could share the gospel without going door to door but through song. He made me understand no matter what I do I can share the word of God from it. I am 21 years old and felt at the age of 12 that I could serve God no matter what.
Thomas Young set the standard for the speakers I brought in for evangelistic and discipling events…so sad to hear of his passing. His passion and sense of humor made me think of Jesus every time I was fortunate enough to have him around me. Our prayers go to Erin and the whole family. We pray that God would comfort you all in ways that words never could.
A verse that comforted me in the sudden death of my dad is Psalm 116:15 – “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.”
God bless the Young family.
Erin, even though I did not know your husband, I want you to know that I am hurting for you. You and your family have been on my mind all week. I am shedding tears for and with you and most definitely praying for you.
Thomas is one of a number of young men Kelly Green mentored and brought into our lives here at Bell Shoals Baptist. He led us in a Frontliners and a Straight up Weekend (Disciple Now). What I think about when I think of Thomas is his passion for the Lord. It was contagious, spreading throughout our youth group and youth staff. He challenged us to go higher. He challenged us to serve the Lord. He challenged us to spread the Gospel. He loved and knew God’s Word and I loved sitting under his teaching. Our prayers go out to Erin and the kids and the body of Christ at his church. He will be sorely missed.
I did not know Thomas Young as well as some of you but I do know he had a profound impact on my life in ways I’m sure I still have yet to see.
I will agree with Gilmore and Patricia Musser in all those silly times at FBCM I remember hearing about in the youth group but one moment I do remember about Thomas came from someone else.
There was a young man by the name of David Garza, he was older than me, same age as Patricia (Musser) Degroot who was deeply impacted by Thomas Young.
David was a wildy charming and attractive young man (and boy did he know it). David was always outgoing and always up for a good time, but even people like that have their hard times. I remember talking to David about his faith and I remember him telling me that it was through Thomas Young’s testimony that he knew that God was real. Even though David was saved at a young age, it was through Thomas that David kept running back to the cross when times got too tough to handle on his own. Even though David wasn’t exactly the best example (as if any of us really are) because of Thomas, he knew that he had a friend in Jesus. If God could save a man like Thomas, David knew God could and would save a young man like him.
David went on to be with the Lord 6 years ago after a drunk driving accident 2 weeks after his 21st birthday. The day I found out, the first thing that came to mind was, was he saved? David’s little sister Kimberly, along with the rest of his family reassured me that they knew he was in heaven. It was Kimberly that told me that because of Thomas Young, she knew she’d see her brother again one day.
Thank you Thomas for sharing your amazing life with the world and for sharing it with David.
I have been praying and will continue to pray for Erin and their children and everyone affected by this. Rest assure in the Lord and he will give you peace.
I spent a week with Thomas and his family in Destin serving at a camp where he was the speaker. I made it a point to then take my youth group the next summer to hear Thomas speak for a week. His passion for God’s Word and clear applications guided many students towards life changing decisions that week and he had a profound impact on me as well.
Thomas and I were roommates at OBU, what a year and half we had together. We lie awake a night talking about how we were going to beat up on another baskeball team and more importantly how we were going to change the world with ministry. He was one of the only ministers I ever believed would actually do it. We all know now he DID! Even though Thomas and I lost touch after his time at First Baptist Grapevine, I can only express to those that do not know him that God has a “go to” soul with him now. Thomas and I shared a flare for enthuisasm, althletics, and debate. I would like to think that we each sharpened each other for Christ. He is one of the few men that have I have known in my life that never waivered on his no or yes to anyone or his preaching of the TRUTH, I always loved that about him. I admired him and envied him for his boldness in Christ as I never attained his passion for evangelism. I wish Erin and the kids all the peace that are our Lord can provide at this time. We should look forward to the time in the future when we can be with our brother again in Glory!
I first had the privilege of encountering Thomas during a Kelly Green revival at Westside BC, Gainesville, FL. Those days of campus infiltration with pizza tickets driving all over the city were permanently etched in my heart and mind. We saw over 600 students attend and 100′s come to Christ. I also made a friend in Thomas and his passion for Christ and the strength of his personality were larger than life, yet there was a real authenticity to this man. Later we attended a Frontliners event in Jackson, TN with Thomas and Kelly. What an impact that week had and several of my key students were radically changed and several came to Christ for the first time! Later we hosted a Frontliners with Thomas in Gainesville. As time went on and the Lord moved me to Crossroads BC in Fort Myers, we had the privilege of bringing Thomas in for a retreat and 2 DNOW’s, Our last encounter was attending a Student Life camp where he was the camp pastor in AL in 2007. Thomas had a profound effect on our students, our church, and my life and ministry like no other speaker, pastor, evangelist. The “realness” of his zeal for the Lord, his gifted teaching and writing, and his ability to connect to people so quickly and at such deep levels were amazing to witness. I know it was the Lord working through him but I have seen very very few so willingly yielded to the Master, a level I still aspire too. I did not count him as just a colleague in ministry but a friend. He never once ceased to care for me, my wife, and my family when he was with us, and he glowed and often spoke of Erin, Graham, Morgan, and Claudia as only a truly devoted, proud husband and father could. All this is why I am deeply devastated by this tragedy and my heart deeply aches for his family though we have never met. I do not undertand nor will I probably ever this side of eternity. So.. I grieve with all those he loved and touched. Thomas truly was a man passionately in love with Jesus and people. His life and legacy will live on through so many who know Christ because of him or have been drawn closer to Christ through his ministry and life. My prayer is that Erin and their precious kids will find the Lord’s abundant peace in the midst of the storm and the embrace of a Father who loves them deeply! My deepest condolences to you and my profound thanks for enabling Thomas to minister as he did in my life!
The moment i heard the news i burst out in tears. I imediately saw his face all alone, and it made me think of how much i missed him already. It has been a really tough last couple of days, but i have so many amazing memories of Thomas. Although i am only 18 years old, i have know the Young family for a long time. We used to go to the same church together, we were family friend, and they would come over for dinner ALWAYS! We had so much fun laughing and talking. Thomas always had a good attitude and always had something inspirational to say. I loved hearing him speak because i always knew i would get something out of it, and he was so easy to enjoy. He loved everyone, even if he barely knew you. i remember when i was babysitting for them one time a couple years ago and before they left they told me, you can eat whatever you want, whats mine is yours. Thomas and Erin were both extremely giving and loving people. I dont thik that Thomas ever went anywhere with out impacted someone’s life. His love for chirst was so appearent in his life, and thats what made him so amazing. He was loved by so many and he will be missed by tons. I will never forget everything he has done for me and my family.
Thomas- may you forever be in my heart and mind. I miss you everday of my life.
Pastor Thomas,
Thank you for taking the time for me. Thank you for investing in me when few others would. The short time i was able to go; thank you for the thursday morning study of theology, the wrestling with and asking of the hard questions. Thank you for listening to my questions and praying with me. The three times we met God showed me what a man looks like who has found his identity, all of it, in Christ. And your sermons will continue to teach me how to walk deeper and press into Christ. I pray that one day I can carry the Gospel and deliver it with the conviction, passion and paradox that you did. I don’t know Erin and your family, but I know behind the pain, you would be so excited that Jesus would choose them to walk this road. What an eternal crown they will be able to lay at Christ’s feet. I long to see Jesus like you do today, but until then I will always be walking with your influence in my step. Thank you.
Isaiah 25.8
Thomas was amazing I loved him so much. I first met him and his family when I was maybe like 4 or 5. Me an Morgan have been best friends ever since. Thomas was always crazy and fun to be with and always new how to have a good time. He inspired me to be a better person and that u can do anything in the eyes of god. he was like a father to me and I love him sooo muchh.
and one day again he will when I see him in heaven with god. love you youngs been 14 yrs and ur like family 
were always here for you guys.
I miss him so much. Morgan, Erin, Graham, & Claudia I love y’all so much and praying for y’all.
Thomas was a great preacher and loved sharing the word of god with everyone. I remember his sort of tradition- picking up the tap at a resturant for the person next to or behind you! He was amazing and god is pround of him. He used to call me Daniel son
On March 10-12th 2008 Thomas Young came to my church to preach a revival. It was not only a revival but an amazing message given to us at a time when we needed it. God spoke through him directly to us in our situation. After that amazing 3 days I started listening to his messages on my computer. I also did an Ephesians study with him as I would sit in my car every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday as I was waiting for my daughter at practice. Many times I would be upset because her practice would end to soon…and I wouldn’t get to finish my study. Thomas had a gift that I can not explain…He just got it!
I will be praying for the family over the next days, weeks, and years.
Thomas preached a revival for us some years ago. We still talk about that series of meetings. Thomas had such a rapport with youth. He really connected with people on such a personal and yet universal level. Maybe it was the pain he had been through and so he never lacked an ability to understand and have compassion for others. His passion and incredible enthusiasm will be remembered. As a pastor, I still see spiritual fruit being produced in the lives of those he impacted in our community. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all and we know Thomas is at peace with his Lord.
For a shy, responsible, easily embarrassed teenager, having a youth pastor (FBC McAllen, TX) who had never met a stranger, who could not be embarrassed, and who lived spontaneously was a challenge at times! God brought Thomas into my life during those crucial high school years to drag me out of my comfort zone, open my eyes to the needs of those around me, and challenge me to share the gospel much more openly than I ever had before. I remember stories of Thomas leading people to Christ on the ski lift, in the checkout line at the grocery, on an airplane. His enthusiasm and passion for evangelism and the gospel was contagious and definitely impacted me in a lasting way. He also wrote my pastoral reference for my college application – I remember being thoroughly embarrassed when I found out he said I was such an awesome candidate that I should be “the Wheaton College poster child”. But I got in! So thanks, Thomas!
While I definitely don’t have the spiritual gift of evangelism like Thomas, I have a much bigger heart for sharing the gospel than I did before I met Thomas – which is partly why I’m a medical missionary now in Kenya working at Tenwek Hospital. Erin, Morgan, Graham, & Claudia, please know that I’m praying for you as is my Bible study group here in Kenya.
I met Thomas for the first time when I was 17 years old when I picked him up from the airport because he was speaking to my youth group. The summer after I turned 19 I started traveling with him. I traveled with Thomas for almost 4 years and those were some of the greatest times of my life. During that time I sold a lot of loser t-shirts, books and whatever else he was selling to help make the name of Jesus great.
I could fill books and books of stories of all the fun we had. All the memories of the hotels, plane rides, games of golf, beach trips and more have flooded my mind. We had a good time and Thomas always knew how to have some fun.
Thomas stood with me in my wedding and walked through some of the hardest days of my life with me. When I screwed up the most, he would speak truth into my life but always told me he was proud of me. I always knew he was and that meant the world to me.
It was amazing going to all those camps and conferences with him and seeing the spirit of God move into people’s lives after he preached. I watched thousands of people walk into the light of Christ salvation because of the ministry of Thomas Young. As a young kid who got opportunities to preach myself, it was a blessing watching the humility of Thomas. In so many ways he hated standing around after church to meet with people, not because he didn’t want to hug and minister to them, but he knew so many would tell him how amazing he was and how great of a preacher he was. He was amazing and very gifted, but Thomas ALWAYS wanted Jesus to gain glory for the gift that was given to him. God’s anointing and power was always on his life. I thank God for Thomas Young. I’m glad for all the deep spiritual things of God he taught me and I’m glad for all those in the US, Africa, India, Germany….. that will see him again in heaven because of his passion to see people know the Jesus he loved so much.
Erin, thank you so much for letting me be apart of your lives, especially the last few days. I loved Thomas so much. Your love and passion for Jesus is amazing and through this all your hope in Christ makes me want to chase after him even more. Thomas loved and cherished you and all those days we traveled he longed to get home to you and the kids.
Morgan, Graham and Claudia. Thanks for letting me be apart of your journey of life. Christ has amazing things for the three of you. My prayer is that you will walk in his truth and be as passionate about Jesus and the lost in the world like your father. I’ve never met a man like your dad that wanted to see the lost come to know Jesus. He loved each of your deeply and bragged about you constantly.
I will miss him deeply, but I’m glad that because of the cross of Jesus Christ I didn’t have to say goodbye to him Thursday and that I will get to see him again in heaven and worship the Christ who he was so passionate about.
Thomas was the youth pastor at FBC Grapevine when I first met him. I wasn’t actually in the youth group when he first started, I was a “pre-teen.” I remember attending a camp geared toward that age group and being a little home sick, since it was the first time I had been away from home that long. Thomas came down for a while to visit with us and get to know us, even though we were so young. I got to know him a little better then, and he made me feel like I was a part of something. Thats the kind of guy Thomas was. No one sat alone when he was around, and EVERYONE mattered. He didn’t care about your age, race, gender, background, mistakes or anything like that. He cared about the person.
When I got to youth, I was so excited to be a part of something so special. I have a lot of great memories from his time with our youth group, and all the fun things he did. I didn’t think anything of it at the time, but looking back, I’m sure he caught a lot of grief about some of the things he did.
Somehow, I don’t think he cared what anyone thought as long as he felt like he was reaching people and doing God’s will. That is why I admired Thomas so much, he was true to God and to himself. I remember when Erin and Thomas got married (I think Becca caught her hair on fire from one of the candles). She was a lot like him; no one was ever alone with her around either, everyone mattered. She was very sweet and caring and seemed to truly accept Thomas for who he was, burps and all. For as young as I was it was still clear to me that while Thomas and Erin were two separate names, you very seldom heard one without the other.
Even though it has been years since I have seen them, they have always had a special place in my heart. I have thought about them often over the last few years as I have gone through my journey with my husband as a youth pastor. In a lot of ways his passion for both Christ and people remind me of Thomas. And I hope throughout our ministry together we can touch the lives of at least a fraction of what Thomas and Erin did together.
Thank you Lord for the time we had with Thomas and for giving him the ability to touch so many lives. My thoughts and prayers are with Erin and their children.
Thomas Young touched my life in a special way about 4 years ago at Bell Shoals Baptist Church at my very first SUW (Straight Up Weekend) and at my first Frontliners(Also known as Disciple Now). He challenged me about one question that shall live with me forever. It was “Do you want to go to the mountain?” Many of our Youth group feel your pain, loosing our own pastors and now Thomas. In the years that have followed their deaths, I have learned two things from it that can be applied to Thomas’s death: 1. God placed him in each of our lives for a purpose, and whatever purpose that was, God took him when it was fulfilled. 2. God aches when we ache and cries when we cry. He understands after sending His son to die for us and He understand our pain now. This is not “goodbye” it never is a word in your vocabulary if you are a Christian, only “See you soon”.
Our youth group is grieving, if not openly then concealed in our hearts. We miss him so much and will continued to be challenged by his book and by his sermons that we remember from his time with us. God Bless his family and his church.
I was blessed to be asked to play keyboards a few times when TSF met in Cinemark. I remember one sermon he told us was going to have ten points. I wrote detailed notes as this annointed preacher spoke the Word like no other I had heard! What I didn’t know at the time was that Thomas also liked the have the pianist underscore the last part of his sermons. Long story short, I only got to write down 4 of those points before I was called back up to play. I know the time constraints of meeting in that theater were hindering and was glad to hear a few months ago that they were meeting in the middle school.
I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that God has begun a Work, and He will complete it! You are never alone!
I remember a time in college when Thomas and I and about 10 other friends decided at the last minute to do a mission trip to Tucson, Arizona. One time we stopped in a McDonalds in New Mexico and Thomas stood up on a table and asked everyone for their attention. He actually preached on top of a table in the middle of the dining area! Several people prayed to receive Christ! I was an eyewitness to that.
I remember a friend who truly loved me and was THE first person to really make me believe that I had the talent to do Christian music professionally. More than that, Thomas challenged me to remember my calling as a minister first.
Thomas introduced me to the game of golf. Being with Thomas on a golf course was an experience in itself! He was so funny because he would get so mad at himself and me for talking trash to him. We had so many hilarious times on the course and a few squabbles as well. Mark Aduddell usually was our referee! When Thomas (who was a 11 or 12 handicap) would hit a bad shot he was always say “This is my first time every playing golf. I had no idea how to play.” and it was so funny. He was a competitor and we always gave each other grief over who was better.
I remember when Morgan was born in Bedford, Texas. Thomas was so excited. I remember the night Claudia was born and Valerie and I watched Morgan and Graham. Thomas was stressed and excited all at the same time. I remember the many conversations where Thomas would brag on Morgan’s passion for missions, Graham’s athletic achievements and how Claudia was his little princess.
I remember when Thomas met Erin. He was smitten from day one. He would always brag on her singing, songwriting, passion for worship and artistry.
For years, Thomas and I dreamed together about planting a church. Many times he tried to get me to be a part of the Sanctuary Fellowship. He loved those people so much. We always dreamed of working together but we knew that we were too much alike!
This is a fact: nobody has ever made me laugh harder than Thomas Young. Nobody has ever challenged and encouraged me like Thomas did. I could imitate him spot on and he could do the same for me. We were truly brothers. God put us together because we needed each other.
There is no doubt that a part of me passed away when Thomas left us. It hurts very badly. Yet, I treasure the hundreds of memories that I have with Thomas.
I will see him again.
I met Thomas at OBU when I was serving as Assistant Campus Minister in 1989. I remember one episode particularly that for me seems to demonstrate the passion that I saw and admired in Thomas Young. We were at a college student leadership conference in Tulsa and our group was gathering after a session to prepare to go eat together. As is often the case, college students can be loud and every event can turn into a party. Well as the group gathered we were standing just outside of a Bar in the hotel that was hosting the conference. I noticed that Thomas would look into the Bar and then look at the group laughing and just goofing off in general and then back into the Bar. After a couple of minutes Thomas came over to the group of students and began to preach. He passionately proclaimed the fact that there were most likely many people in the bar just a few feet away that would die and spend an eternity in hell. He challenged that this group of “Spiritual” OBU student leaders were more concerned about what was for dinner than the salvation of those that were lost. It was at this moment that the student became the teacher in my life. Here I was the leader of this group and as such should have been the one setting the tone. I learned from Thomas that day and on many other occasions the need to keep a passion and love for lost souls ever before us. I remember the group was a bit stunned (and mostly convicted) as Thomas then turned and walked into the Bar and began to share the gospel with those that were there. I wonder how many from that day were a part of Thomas’s “coming home” party this past week?
we did several events with thomas, and i have never been with a speaker who promoted OUR mechandise as much as thomas did. I remember at one camp we sold out of CD’s!! = because of the kind things he said, and his influential personality. It is a testimony to his generosity and selflessess. may God be with his family during this time of suffering.
Thomas was the ablest young expositor and preacher of the word I ever heard. He blessed thousands in Chattanooga when he came with Kelly Green…as was said of Abel..he being dead yet speaks….he is missed in Tennessee
love Ron Phillips
I did not know Thomas, nor was I familiar with his ministry. However, word of his death and the tragic circumstances surrounding it reached us shortly afterwards. We have prayed that others would not be judgemental or ungracious toward him or the others involved in the situation, but would rather mourn with those who mourn and pray for his family, friends, church and others he left behind. Please know that we are praying that all will understand that even in tragedy God is sovereign and has a plan greater than we are capable of understanding. May the Lord bless you and keep you, may the Lord make His face shine upon you and give you peace!
I just got on your website to see what Thomas has been up to and was saddened in my heart to read that he has passed away. I first heard Thomas a little over 10 years ago in Longview TX at a Frontliners event. I saw the passion and the fun that he had. I remember thinking, what a way to make a living. I could “see” his heart beat for Christ. Not too long after that, he came to our church and led us in revival services. We had an awesome week and I was blessed to be able to hang out with Thomas for a bit after the services. I know that God called me into the ministry, but Thomas showed me just how much FUN that ministry could, and should, be. Please give my regards to his wife and children. Please let them know that my wife and I will be lifting them up to our Lord in prayer.
Thomas touched my family’s life in a huge way. My brother, Chris, was in the Youth group at FBC Grapevine when Thomas was there. I was almost 9 years older than Chris so I was past the Youth group age. Chris struggled with friends pulling him in the wrong direction but he always was active in the Youth group because of Thomas. He absolutely adored Thomas. He also adored Erin, as well, and thought she was so cute and little.
In all the time that Chris was active in the group, I had never had cause to interact much with Thomas. However, I had an issue that I was struggling with and had gone to talk with the pastor. The pastor was unexpectedly unavailable and Thomas came in to talk with me. I remember being embarassed and awkward because he wasn’t far from my own age. But he was so wonderful and accepting of me and I have never forgot that day. I can’t even find the words to express how I felt after talking with him.
In February 1997, Chris had succumbed to the pressure of a bad “friend” and had left home in his senior year of school. The “friend” was driving 90 miles an hour on an access road in Grapevine and hit a patch of water. The car hit a tree and split completely down the middle in half. Chris was thrown from a car and was killed. Our family was devastated and it was compounded since this was the second child my parents had lost.
I don’t know who contacted Thomas (he and Erin had moved on from Grapevine at this point) but I will never forget standing outside the funeral home immediately after the service and seeing Thomas and Erin walking toward me. I barely remember who else came to the funeral but I remember Thomas. What sincere joy filled my heart to see him there! I remember telling him that Chris would be so thrilled to see him there. We were so touched that he came.
As a mother, my heart hurts for Thomas to think of what he must have been strugglng with in order for him to take his own life. I would have never, ever suspected that this could happen. But none of us are exempt from Satan’s evil and the temptations and weaknesses he puts in our paths.
My Daddy died two days ago and I know that he most certainly greeted Thomas joyously when he saw him once he got to Heaven. With no more suffering and pain and only the peace that can come knowing Christ, there is total and utter refuge in Heaven if we will only accept Him.
I served under Thomas Young at a Baptist Church in Oklahoma City. Thomas was an encourager, and a MAJOR soul winner. Thomas and I hit it off immediately, as we shared the same passion…leading young people to Jesus Christ. Thomas and I lead gang members to Christ during our short time together. In fact, we were both pretty much run off from that church, because we were bringing in kids who the older people didn’t want to mess with. Thomas never let any feelings of discouragement show. He just held his head up high, and reminded me that we were there to serve Jesus, and love young people.
After he became youth pastor, at First Baptist Church, McAllen, Texas, he invited me to be the Bible Study leader at his youth camp in Cloudcroft, New Mexico. That was a week I will always remember. It was the last time Thomas and I served the Lord together.
I just found out this week about Thomas’ tragic death, and I only wish I had one more time to tell him how much he meant to me, and how much I enjoyed loving young people to Christ with him.
Thomas’ three kids have a lot to be proud of. Their dad loved them very much, and he loved his Jesus! I pray for them, and for all of us who were touched by, and loved Thomas.
Thomas, you have finally found peace, and I will see you again in our Heavenly home! Thank you for being a friend, mentor, and brother!