How Bishop Dwight A. Reed is Transforming Des Moines Communities
Bishop Dwight A. Reed is someone who genuinely cares about helping people and is more than just a Des Moines church leader. He has been leading Christ Apostolic Temple, the largest mostly African-American church in Iowa, since 2017.
However, he is not only concerned with Sunday services. In addition to preaching, Pastor Reed runs programs that benefit the entire community. In the following sections, you will learn his genuine impact on people’s lives.
Background on Bishop Dwight A. Reed
Understanding his impact helps to understand the background of pastor Dwight Reed.
Dwight A. Reed was born in Okmulgee, Oklahoma. As a young child, he and his family moved to Des Moines, Iowa, where he attended local schools. Later, he continued his education and eventually earned a degree in theology.
Following in his father's footsteps, he demonstrated leadership early in life. He was appointed pastor of Christ Apostolic Temple in 2017, which is currently Iowa’s largest church with a majority of African Americans.
Community Service Through CATCOS
The leadership style of Dwight A. Reed runs deep. And he demonstrates his deep concern for the betterment of the Des Moines community through his multiple outreach programs.
The most notable is CATCOS, Christ Apostolic Temple Community Outreach Services. CATCOS is a community service resource for many in the Des Moines community. Some of the wonderful services include a weekly distribution of food boxes through a partnership with Costco. Families also receive free school supplies, free clothing, and a variety of household items.
In addition to the weekly services outlined, CATCOS also runs a Toys for Tots drive each year during the holiday season to put smiles on children’s faces and joy in families.
Last but not least, the outreach ministry serves the homeless in Des Moines by serving hot meals and providing warm winter clothing. These services are offered twice a month.
Each one of these outreach programs relies on building relationships with committeemen to develop strategic community partnerships as well as genuine investment from volunteers who desire to impact the success of the project and continue to serve people throughout the community via CATCOS.
What Pastor Dwight Reed has been able to accomplish with his community ministry vision, and what CATCOS has blossomed into today, is truly commendable. Due to his leadership and vision with a servant heart perspective, CATCOS continues to thrive and impact many in the greater Des Moines area.
Programs for Healing, Growth, and Support
Dwight A. Reed also helps meet emotional and personal development, alongside meeting physical obligations. The program "Living Above Anxiety," led by a certified facilitator through NAMI, is one of many services offered weekly as part of a mental health class.
A program called "Road to Recovery" seeks to assist those struggling with addiction using a 12-step program. This is a public program conducted with the help of the Iowa Department of Corrections.
There are also youth summits and coding programs through Principal Financial (P515), which teach high school students real tech skills to aid youth development and mentorship.
People coming out of prison can get help finding jobs. There are connections to over seventy employers. Couples can also join the “A Better You” program. It is a marriage enrichment class that helps couples build stronger relationships.
In reviewing and considering the various approaches and programs, a positive impact is being made for healing and change in the community of Des Moines.
Conclusion
The work of Bishop Dwight A. Reed is much more than what you see on a Sunday morning. Through his leadership, Christ Apostolic Temple has become a place for healing, support, and growth. His outreach initiatives are helping to change lives and demonstrate how dedication and faith in action can truly make a difference.