Bishop Dwight Reed is a man whose leadership, compassion, and faith have made a lasting difference in countless lives. As the Senior Pastor of Christ Apostolic Temple, Inc. in Des Moines, Iowa, he has dedicated himself to both spiritual growth and community transformation. His vision for service extends far beyond the pulpit, impacting individuals, families, and neighborhoods through innovative outreach programs and unwavering dedication.
Early Life of Bishop Dwight Reed
Born in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, on August 15, 1958, Bishop Dwight Reed was the youngest of four children born to his parents, Bishop Jeremiah and Willie Mae Reed. In 1959, the Reed family relocated to Des Moines, Iowa. This move would be the beginning of a journey that combined deep faith, leadership, and a commitment to helping others.
Dwight attended Wallace Elementary School, Amos Hiatt Middle School, and later Des Moines Technical High School, where he actively participated in the ROTC program. These formative years instilled in him discipline, a strong sense of service, and an ability to lead—qualities that would later become essential in his ministry.
Educational Journey and Spiritual Development
Bishop Dwight Reed’s commitment to personal growth led him to Southeastern Community College, where he built a strong educational foundation. His passion for ministry and deep understanding of scripture inspired him to pursue advanced theological studies, culminating in a Master of Theology from JCAA, a fully accredited Christian college.
This academic achievement provided him with both theological expertise and the skills to teach, mentor, and inspire others. His knowledge and compassion would soon become the foundation for his impactful leadership in the church and the community.
Pastoral Leadership and Transition at Christ Apostolic Temple
Before leading Christ Apostolic Temple, Bishop Dwight Reed pastored two churches in Louisiana. These experiences prepared him for the significant responsibility he would later inherit.
In December 2017, Bishop Reed succeeded his father, Bishop Jeremiah Reed, as Senior Pastor of Christ Apostolic Temple, Inc. in Des Moines. This transition marked the continuation of a rich legacy while also opening the door for new ideas and programs to better serve the community.
Over the past seven years, Bishop Reed has led the largest predominantly African American church in Iowa with passion, vision, and commitment. His leadership style blends traditional Biblical teaching with forward-thinking community engagement, ensuring the church remains a pillar of strength and hope.
Bishop Dwight Reed’s Community Outreach Through CATCOS
During his seven-year tenure, Bishop Dwight Reed has started and cultivated many community outreach programs to assist people across Des Moines and beyond. His initiatives, organized under the Christ Apostolic Temple Community Outreach Services (CATCOS), address both spiritual and practical needs.
Through CATCOS, Bishop Reed has expanded the church’s reach with programs that provide food, clothing, mentorship, educational support, and other vital resources to the community. By partnering with local organizations and mobilizing volunteers, CATCOS has become a model of effective, faith-driven community service.
Some of the impactful programs under CATCOS include:
- Food Distribution Services – Supplying nutritious meals to families in need.
- Youth Mentorship Programs – Guiding young people toward positive life choices and career goals.
- Educational Support – Providing resources and tutoring for students.
- Health and Wellness Initiatives – Offering free clinics, health screenings, and wellness workshops.
- Family Assistance Services – Helping households facing financial hardship with essential resources.
By building these initiatives, Bishop Reed has strengthened community ties, instilled hope, and addressed pressing needs with compassion and efficiency.
Faith and Unity as Cornerstones of Leadership
Bishop Dwight Reed’s ministry is rooted in the belief that faith must inspire action. His sermons often highlight themes of unity, compassion, and personal responsibility, encouraging members to actively participate in building stronger, more connected communities.
Whether delivering a message from the pulpit or engaging with people at outreach events, Bishop Reed leads by example. His ability to bring diverse groups together under a shared mission of service has made him a unifying figure in the region.
Achievements and Recognition
Throughout his career, Bishop Dwight Reed has been recognized for his unwavering dedication to both ministry and service. Leading the largest African American church in Iowa is no small accomplishment, but he has gone beyond traditional pastoral duties to address social issues, provide resources, and give a voice to those in need.
His work has inspired not only his congregation but also community leaders, civic organizations, and faith groups across the state.
Bishop Dwight Reed’s Vision for the Future
Looking forward, Bishop Reed is committed to expanding CATCOS and developing new programs that address emerging challenges in the community. His goals include increasing access to educational resources, enhancing health services, and creating more opportunities for young people to thrive.
He envisions a future where the church continues to be a central hub for spiritual guidance and social support—helping individuals grow in faith while also meeting their real-world needs.
A Personal Commitment to Service
Beyond his public role, Bishop Dwight Reed is deeply committed to his family, friends, and personal walk with God. His humility, compassion, and unwavering moral compass serve as guiding lights for those who know him personally. These values, instilled from childhood by his parents, remain at the heart of his leadership style.
An Enduring Legacy
Bishop Dwight Reed has shaped local communities through a lifetime of faith, service, and leadership. From his early days in Oklahoma and Iowa to his leadership at Christ Apostolic Temple, he has remained steadfast in his mission to uplift others.
Through CATCOS and his broader ministry, Bishop Reed has demonstrated that strong communities are built through a combination of spiritual guidance, practical assistance, and genuine compassion. His story is one of vision, perseverance, and the belief that faith can inspire transformative change.
