The Full Story
Our Founders’ Story: Bishop Carl D. Reynolds & Pastor Cassandra Reynolds
​
A Journey of Faith, Redemption, and Service
Bishop Carl D. Reynolds was born in Martinsville, Virginia, the oldest of four children to James and Barbara King, with Ransom Bradshaw as his stepfather. Raised with family values that later intertwined with his spiritual journey, Carl’s life took a transformative turn through faith. Married to Cassandra Reynolds for nearly 29 years, they have two daughters, Dominique and Whitney, as well as three beloved grandchildren, Dahliya, Savannah, and Sahai.
​
Carl’s path to ministry is a powerful testimony of redemption and purpose. While serving in church ministries such as the Men’s Outreach Ministry at Deliverance Temple Pentecostal Church, Carl faced significant life challenges, but tet, during those difficult times, he experienced profound spiritual awakening. Embracing God’s grace, he re-dedicated his life, finding freedom and purpose through the study of Scripture and faith in Christ. Physically confined but spiritually free, Carl’s resolve strengthened as he heard God’s calling to ministry.
​
In 2004, Carl preached his first sermon, titled “It’s Not What It Looks Like!” that marked the public beginning of his ministry. Ordained under Dr. John Calabrese of Greater Grace the same year, he went on to serve with zeal at several ministries. His leadership at Upon This Rock Ministries included starting the Men’s Support Group, helping men build faith and resilience. Later, at Church of Hope Revival Center, Carl served as Elder and Assistant Pastor under Pastor Donna Spears, further sharpening his pastoral and leadership gifts.
​
Alongside ministry work, Carl has been deeply committed to community impact. He works professionally as an Employment and Benefits Manager at Columbus House Inc. There he developed employment and disability benefits programs for chronically homeless individuals, people struggling with substance use, mental health issues, and legal challenges. His expertise in this field has made him a sought-after speaker at state-wide and national conferences on best practices for homeless employment and job readiness. This dual role of community builder and spiritual leader highlights Carl’s holistic approach to ministry — addressing both spiritual and practical needs.
​
Carl’s academic pursuit demonstrates his commitment to excellence in ministry. After beginning theological studies at Fresh Oil Bible Institute in 2019, he graduated with a Diploma of Basic Bible Studies, then earned Associate and Bachelor degrees in Christian and Biblical Counseling. On October 2, 2022, he proudly received his Master of Divinity and Doctor of Theology degrees, embodying a leader who walks deeply in study and Spirit. Bishop Carl Reynolds was installed as Bishop in May 2023, by Apostle Valerie Washington & Apostle William McKissick Jr.
​
Bishop Reynolds often shares the principle that undergirds his leadership: “Before the people want to know how much you know, they want to know how much you care.” This belief, alongside favorite scriptures Philippians 4:13 (“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”) and Luke 12:48 (“To whom much is given, much is required”), guides his pastoral heart and vision.
​
Pastor Cassandra Reynolds: A Life of Devotion and Empowerment
Born in New Haven, Connecticut, Cassandra Reynolds’ spiritual journey began in 1994 when she accepted Christ and joined Deliverance Temple Pentecostal Church. She actively contributed to the church as an Usher, Pastor’s Aide, Missionary, and Youth Leader. Ordained an Evangelist in 2000, Cassandra’s passion for teaching the Word was evident in her outreach Bible Studies at the Cedar Hill Apartments in New Haven, ministering to diverse groups with love and care.
​
Her leadership blossomed after transitioning to Upon This Rock Ministries in 2005, where she took on the role of Assistant Church Administrator and served on the Board of Directors under Apostle Valerie Washington. Recognizing the need to strengthen women spiritually and practically, she founded “The Woman of Virtue Life Support Group” in 2007. This life-changing ministry empowers women of all ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds to discover their God-given potential through the Holy Spirit’s guidance. The program has been instrumental in fostering spiritual growth, personal development, and leadership skills, preparing women to nurture their families, churches, and communities effectively.
​
In 2011, Cassandra moved to Church of Hope Revival Center, where she faithfully served as Armored Bearer and Church Finance Officer, supporting the church’s leadership under Pastor Donna Spears. When her husband, then Elder Carl Reynolds, responded to God’s call to pastor and founded Tabernacle of Faith and Deliverance Ministries in December 2013, Cassandra embraced her role as First Lady with grace and dedication.
​
Her leadership continued to ascend when, in 2017, she was elevated to Assistant Pastor. She currently serves alongside Bishop Reynolds, sharing the vision and burden for the ministry’s growth and community impact. In 2023, Cassandra was honored with the role of Elect-Pastor, formal recognition of her spiritual maturity, leadership, and commitment to serving the congregation. She began the Women’s outreach ministry.
​
Evangelist Cassandra is a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment and community service. Through her ministry, she exemplifies the transformative power of faith, teaching that true strength is found in embracing God’s calling and using spiritual gifts to uplift others.
​
The Birth and Mission of Tabernacle of Faith and Deliverance Ministries
On December 31, 2013, with a heart full of faith and divine calling, Bishop Carl D. Reynolds founded Tabernacle of Faith and Deliverance Ministries in Hamden, Connecticut. Opening its doors on New Year’s Eve of that year, the church was established as a non-denominational ministry under the anointing of the Holy Spirit, with a clear mission to empower individuals and families, promote spiritual growth, and serve the community with compassion.
​
Located at 60 Connolly Parkway, Building 3, the ministry has held steadfast to its founding vision: to be a beacon of hope and a place where everyone — regardless of background, race, or circumstance — can encounter God’s love and find practical support. The ministry’s roots lie deeply in biblical teaching, Christian counseling, worship, and outreach to the homeless, underprivileged, and those facing life’s challenges.
​
From early on, with the leadership of Bishop Reynolds and Evangelist Cassandra Reynolds, the church has built strong programs that minister to the whole person. These include worship services filled with the Holy Spirit, empowering women through the “Woman of Virtue Life Support Group,” and outreach to fight homelessness and other social issues. Their programs reflect a commitment to holistic care — nurturing body, mind, and spirit.
Bishop Reynolds’ professional work and passion for community development have integrated well with the ministry’s outreach. His insight into employment programs for the homeless and his public speaking engagements at conferences have helped position the church as a community resource as well as a spiritual home.
​
The leadership philosophy of Tabernacle of Faith and Deliverance Ministries rests on authentic care. As Bishop Reynolds states, “Before the people want to know how much you know, they want to know how much you care.” This love-driven leadership culture has fostered a warm, inclusive congregation where families grow, leaders are equipped, and community needs are addressed.
​
As of today, Tabernacle of Faith and Deliverance Ministries continues to thrive as a spiritually vibrant, growing family of faith dedicated to making a lasting impact in Hamden, New Haven, and beyond. The church remains led by Bishop Carl D. Reynolds and Elect-Pastor Cassandra Reynolds, who together embody a spirit of servant leadership, theological depth, and compassionate outreach.
Let’s Work Together
Get in touch so we can start working together.
