Rev. John Thomas

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The Reverend John Thomas (1871–1921) was a Wesleyan Methodist Church minister, schoolmaster and community leader in the province of Natal (now Kwa-Zulu Natal), South Africa. The World Methodist Historical Society notes that Rev. Thomas was the very first East Indian minister to ever be ordained in South Africa, and probably the first ever non-white ordination, since it was standard practice for both the Anglican and Roman Catholic sects to import all Indian ministers from India.^[1] According to the Rev. S. H. Stott, in his autobiographical work, 'A Nonagenarian's Experiences and Observations in Many Lands.' (London: Epworth Press 1927), Rev. John Thomas is noted for his single-handed translation of the Bible into the Dravidian Tamil language and Telugu language which was an essential element for the growth of Christianity in the South African Indian community.

He is also noted for his extensive missionary work; educational contributions; social responsibility; conflict resolutions and community service, provided at a pivotal and dangerous time for Indians in Natal.

His school, one of very few formal educational facilities available at that time for Indian pupils, taught a curriculum of both religious and secular education and was inclusive of both Christian and non-Christian pupils; Black and mixed race children, then called Coloured. Thus, he is credited by his superiors, peers and notable pupils, for greatly advancing not only the education, but the successful identity, community growth, and cultural life of the non-Christian and Christian East Indian populace in the province of Natal. He can thus, also be credited for heavily influencing and motivating the young Indian minds of various faiths, who went on to acquire acclaim within the non-violent anti-Apartheid Movement; and national business, political and cultural arenas. Today, the South African Indian community is the largest outside of India.^[2]