Siby Thomas will lead the first culture class at the First Lutheran Church on June 23.

The first “Culture Class” at First Lutheran Church will be presented by Siby Thomas on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.

When Pastor Jeff Ewing was awarded a 2026 Pastoral Renewal Grant from the Lilly Foundation, he had to describe: “What would make your heart sing?” He included travel to learn about different cultures. A requirement of the grant is that his home congregation sponsor activities that mirror his, while he is on sabbatical. To that end, Thomas will present on the culture of India. The classes are free of charge. Other cultures to be studied at a later date include Italian, Swedish and Native American.

Thomas has been a resident of Warren for over 33 years and has been teaching at Jamestown Community College since 2004. As an instructor, she teaches Philosophy, Sociology, Psychology, and Religion, bringing both academic expertise and a passion for education to her students. She has earned master’s degrees in Sociology, Psychology, Christian Studies, Philosophy, and Religion. Committed to lifelong learning, Siby continued her education while teaching and earned five associate degrees from Jamestown Community College. Her experience as both a student and an educator has given her valuable insight into the learning process. For Thomas, teaching is more than a profession — it is a passion and a lifelong calling.

Born and raised in India, Thomas immigrated to the United States in 1988. Her transition to a new country, exposure to diverse cultures, and educational experiences in both India and the United States have helped her develop a distinctive and positive approach to life. She was born into a Jacobite Orthodox Christian family and remains a devoted believer. She serves as a public speaker in various church congregations and in Indian cultural and community organizations. She is also a member of First Lutheran Church in Warren. A published writer who writes primarily in her mother tongue, Malayalam, Thomas is currently working on a book and research project. She enjoys reading, writing, and traveling.

She is married to Dr. Sunny Thomas and is blessed with three children and one grandchild. Family, faith, education, and service continue to be the foundations of her life and work.

For more information on these cultural classes, contact the First Lutheran Church at 814-723-6450.