Transforming Life

The Reverend W. Douglas Banks wears many hats—Senior Pastor, Adjunct Professor, Mental Health Advocate, and Program Manager of an anti-gun violence initiative—all centered within the heart of the vibrant Germantown community of Philadelphia. 

As the 5th great-grandson of Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings, Reverend Banks has taken a unique position as a voice for racial harmony and justice. His powerful story of ancestral ties and his passion for human dignity have earned him national attention over the last twenty-five years, where he has been featured on numerous television and media outlets, inspiring others with his message of reconciliation and hope.

As Senior Pastor of The Church of Transformation, he is a dedicated leader, guiding a diverse group of believers toward personal and communal renewal. Under his leadership, the church has become a hub for conversations about embracing differences, fostering justice, and building an equitable society where every person has the opportunity to thrive.

Beyond the pulpit, Reverend Banks is a strong advocate for mental wellness, particularly within the African American community. He has worked tirelessly to break down the stigma surrounding therapy and mental health, especially for Black men, creating programs and support networks that uplift and heal. His deep commitment to Germantown extends to combating gun violence, where he brings together residents in beautifying their neighborhoods—an initiative that has proven effective in reducing violence and restoring hope.

Together with his wife, Tesemma, Reverend Banks is raising five sons with the values of faith, justice, and leadership. Reverend Banks has taken a bachelors degree from The Ohio State University and continues pursuing a Master of Divinity begun at Palmer Theological Seminary, further equipping him to serve his community and congregation with wisdom and compassion.