Meet our FOUNDER

October 21, 1962 - September 27, 2022

 Bishop Thomas C. Bell was a native of Tarboro, North Carolina. He faithfully served in the United States Air Force for 16 years and is the father of four children.  

He accepted his call to ministry, was mentored and licensed in 1989 under the covering of Grace Cathedral Ministries. He was given the spiritual assignment to pastor in Camden, South Carolina in 1993. Continuing to serve in this capacity, he was called by God to birth Cathedral of Praise Ministries, Inc. in 2001, also known as COP Ministries.

In 2002, Pastor Bell was elevated to the office of Bishop through the birthing of Grace Cathedral Christian Fellowship, now headquartered in Greenville, where Apostle Sammy C. Smith is the Founder/Prelate. 

 Bishop Bell’s unique ability to inspire youth, to speak the truth boldly as well as lead by example, his passion for life, and love for people have been used to help revive the true sense of community, breaking down denominational, racial and economic walls. Because of his love for and ministry to people throughout the area, he adopted the title “Community Pastor”. 

 By God’s grace and favor, his impact on the lives of people has reached deeper and further than can be measured.