Recognising three decades of pastoral service, education, inclusion and community humanitarian work
THE NELAS ACADEMY | SEPTEMBER 2026
The Nelas Academy of Arts, Media and Television has announced the nomination of The Rev. Dr. Paul Thomas Rock, Senior Pastor of the American Church in Paris, among the Nelas 50 Most Inspirational & Humanitarian People 2025/2026.
The recognition acknowledges Dr. Rock’s three decades of engagement in education, mission and pastoral service across the United States and Europe, and his continuing work to build a welcoming and service-oriented community in Paris.
A career rooted in service
Dr. Rock began his professional journey with a three-year period of teaching and mission leadership in Budapest, Hungary. He subsequently served in pastoral roles in Los Angeles and New York, including at Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church, before becoming Senior Pastor of Second Presbyterian Church in Kansas City.
For the past five years, he has served as Senior Pastor of the American Church in Paris, an international congregation bringing together people from more than 50 nationalities and a wide range of faith backgrounds.
Community service in Paris
Beyond worship and pastoral ministry, the American Church in Paris provides space for numerous community organisations and initiatives, including preschool education, music programmes, recovery groups, food preparation and distribution, and support for immigrants without housing during the coldest months of the year.
It is this combination of pastoral leadership, education, inclusion and practical community service that forms an important part of the basis for Dr. Rock’s nomination.
Statement from the President
“The Nelas 50 recognition is intended to document and honour individuals whose work has made a meaningful contribution to people and communities. Rev. Dr. Paul Thomas Rock’s record of pastoral service, education, international engagement and practical community support reflects the spirit of service that this initiative seeks to recognise.”
— Frank Ikegwuonu
President, The Nelas Academy
Academic and literary contribution
Dr. Rock earned a Master of Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary in 1998 and a Doctor of Ministry from Drew University in 2011. He has served on the Board of Trustees of McCormick Seminary in Chicago and is the author of two books published by Westminster John Knox Press.
About the Nelas 50
The Nelas 50 Most Inspirational & Humanitarian People initiative is a documentation and recognition project of The Nelas Academy highlighting individuals whose work in humanitarian service, leadership, education, culture, creative industries, community development and related fields has made a meaningful impact.
The 2025/2026 edition forms part of the Academy’s broader programme of international cultural exchange, research and recognition of people contributing to society across Africa, Europe and the wider international community.
Issued by The Nelas Academy of Arts, Media and Television
Frank Ikegwuonu, President
Official Communications Office
