Virgin Islands-born Bishop Dr Carswell Adolph Leonard was recently named by the International Presbytery of the Church of God of Prophecy as General Presbyter-Select for the Caribbean and Atlantic Ocean Islands. Photo: Provided

Bishop Dr Carswell A. Leonard's appointment as general presbyter of the Caribbean and Atlantic Ocean Islands took place during the International Presbytery of the Church of God of Prophecy’s meeting in Orlando, Florida. Photo: COGOP

Dr Carswell A. Leonard will work alongside national bishops and ministry leaders to advance the Church’s mission of reconciling the world to Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit. Photo: COGOP

According to information shared with our news centre by his family, in addition to providing spiritual leadership and oversight for the Church of God of Prophecy throughout the Caribbean and Atlantic Ocean Islands, Bishop Leonard will work alongside national bishops and ministry leaders to advance the Church’s mission of reconciling the world to Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit. 

“His appointment is a testament to a lifetime of faithful service to God, his church, and the people he has been called to serve,” the family’s statement added. 

His selection was made during the International Presbytery of the Church of God of Prophecy’s meeting in Orlando, Florida. He will assume office on September 1, 2026.

Current Pastoral & Regional Leadership

Bishop Leonard was born on Tortola and raised on St Thomas. He is the son of Doris Leonard Emmanuel and the late Curtis Callender. He has been married to Alfreda Leonard for 45 years and is the father of Breanna N. Leonard. 

It was in the USVI where he developed the values, faith, and character that have guided him throughout his life. 

He currently serves as the Regional Presbyter for the Northeast Caribbean Region, overseeing the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao), the Virgin Islands, and the United States Virgin Islands, as well as Senior Pastor for the Oasis Church of God of Prophecy located on Weymouth Rhymer Hwy, St Thomas. 

“This latest appointment reflects his unwavering commitment to ministry, leadership, and the spiritual growth of countless individuals throughout the region.”

Answering the call to ministry

At 15, he gave his life to Christ, and after graduating in 1977 from Charlotte Amalie High School, Bishop Leonard enlisted in the United States Army, serving honourably for 22 years, retiring with the rank of Master Sergeant.

He has degrees in Nuclear Medicine Technology, Business Administration, a Master of Business Administration, a Master of Divinity, and earned a PhD in Theological Studies from Regent University. He also received numerous honours, including Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges, induction into the Alpha Chi Honour Society, and selection to present scholarly research before the Society of Pentecostal Studies.

Following his retirement from the military, Bishop Leonard went into ministry full-time. 

“Through decades of faithful service, he has become a respected pastor, mentor, and spiritual leader whose influence extends far beyond the walls of the church. His dedication to serving others, proclaiming the Gospel, and strengthening communities has earned him the admiration and respect of many,” the family’s statement added. 

Congratulations from a proud family

“On behalf of our mother, Ms Doris Leonard Emmanuel, and his siblings—Patricia Leonard Roberts, Rita Leonard-Harris, Hannah Leonard-Hines, Wilhelm Leonard, Dwight Leonard, Hildereen Malone, Kennard (Kirby) Callender, and Paulette Wilson—we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Bishop Dr Carswell Adolph Leonard,” the family said. 

They also acknowledged the late Mr Phillip and Mrs Frances Rhymer, who played a vital role in Bishop Leonard’s upbringing. 

“We are immensely proud of his accomplishments, his steadfast faith, and the example he continues to set through his humility, integrity, unwavering faith, and servant leadership. We pray that God will continue to bless him with wisdom, strength, good health, and abundant grace as he faithfully carries out the responsibilities of his new position.”