He is the father of five children; Tamara M. Lots (Courtney), Victor Ricardo Thomas Jr., Morris H. Thomas, Steven D. Thomas and Dominique A. Thomas. He also has two very loving grandchildren, Kourtney Mickayla and KyLee Ricardo Dwayne Lots.

"Pastor Rick" received his early education in the Highland Park School System, where he graduated from Highland Park High School as the Senior Class President and Captain of the Football Team. He has attended Oakland University and Wayne State University. He has completed four years of study in Biblical Counseling and received certification from Christian Research and Development of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He is now an instructor of Biblical Counseling to pastors, church members, and professionals. He is currently attending Ashland Theological Seminary's Pastors of Excellence Program for 2004-2005.

Soon after Faith Tabernacle Church was founded in 1966, V. Ricardo's father, the late Bishop Morris Thomas laid hands on him in prayer and told him of the calling that was on his life. V. Ricardo was not ready to accept the calling at that time and like the prodigal son, was drawn to the "Street Life". V. Ricardo went into a lifestyle that held him captive for over 25 years. It took him to the earthly pits of a hellish existence. Yet God took him from that PIT to the PULPIT. In 1991 he came to himself and accepted the call on his life and began training for the ministry. He was ordained an Elder and appointed Administrative Pastor of Faith Tabernacle Church of Highland Park in 1996. He has been the Senior Pastor since 2000.

"Pastor Rick" has now dedicated his life to serving the Lord. He preaches and teaches how the Word of God and the Power of the Holy Ghost can change people's lives. He now helps to equip, train and counsel Christians in all aspects of the Word of God all over the world. His life is an example to all of the redemptive, reconciliation and restorative work of Jesus Christ. He is sought out and spreads the gospel, teaches and speaks at conventions, seminars and conferences locally, nationally and internationally.

Pastor Thomas serves on the Board of Directors of the Highland Park Business Association and is the Chairman of the Highland Park Homeowners Collaborative. He is also a part of the Highland Park Planning Commission and the Governor's Leadership Steering Committee for Highland Park. He serves on these organizations to help make a difference so that Highland Park becomes a better place to live, work and do business. He has ministered in prisons and assemblies in South Africa, Jamaica and Michigan. His book entitled, The Prodigal Son, is in its second printing.
TO GOD BE THE GLORY!