Dr. M.T. Thompson

There is only ONE Dr. M.T. Thompson!  He was a spiritual giant in his own right.  He served as our Pastor, Father, mentor, and spiritual leader for four decades.  Under his leadership, Berkeley Mt. Zion became known as the “Church where the Holy Ghost rules”

To watch our Dr. Thompson minister was like watching the hand of God open up a treasure chest and pull out gift after gift after gift.  He was our Pastor, preacher, teacher, psalmist, recording artist, counselor, confidant, and father.  His charisma (he was able to hold 5 conversations at the same time), his fatherly wit, and even his honesty about his journey gave us a glimpse of the pastor’s heart he possessed.  He was sought after for revivals, conferences, seminars, and panels across this country.  The world was able to see, if just for a moment, the prolific and relevant teaching we were blessed to have week in and week out.  Even after retiring from the the Berkley Mt. Zion vineyard, he continued to serve as the acting pastor of the Bethany Baptist Church, as he was always ready and willing to be used in God’s service.

Dr. Thompson has served the body of Christ in so many capacities, both spiritual and civic.  Namely as moderator of the Home and Foreign Mission District,  President of the Baptist Ministers Union of Oakland and Vicinities, and the first African-American to serve on the Contra Costa County Housing Authority, just to name a few.  But to us, the members of the Berkeley Mt. Zion family, he was often affectionally called “Reverend”

He has been a friend, father, and counselor to countless preachers and pastors across the country.  Preachers It was a common sight to see his office filled with pastors as they sat with anticipation to glean from his deep well of wisdom and knowledge.  Always doing his best to open doors and provide opportunities for other preachers to exercise their gifts.

We celebrate and remember the life and legacy of the Man, the Music, and the ministry of Dr. M.T. Thompson