Pastor Leonard D. Collins, Sr. is the third son of the late Mr. Daniel and Mrs. Lorraine Collins of New Orleans, LA.
He completed his formative education at L.W. Higgins High School. Collins courageously served his country in the United States Navy for eight years, where he was honorably discharged. Later, he enrolled at Chabot College in Hayward, CA, studying Criminal Justice. In addition, he attended various Biblical Training Seminars to accompany his love for the Word of God and his undeniable calling to the ministry of God. Elder Collins is proud former member of the Glad Tidings International Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Bishop Jerry W. Macklin, First Assistant Presiding Bishop of the Church of God in Christ, Inc., until he and his family moved to Texas.
With a high recommendation from Bishop Macklin, he and his family united with The Rising Star Church of God in Christ in Fort Worth Texas, under the nurturing leadership of Supt. Robert L. Macklin. While under this leadership, he was elevated and ordained as a Deacon where he served faithfully until the demise of Supt. Robert Macklin.
His faithful service did not cease under the leadership of Supt. E. Charles Barrett. He genuinely served alongside this leadership until his demise. He attributes much of his pastoral care and guidance to Supt. Barrett. Elder Collins answered the call of the Lord to the ministry in 2007.
He is ordained and licensed in the Church of God in Christ, Inc.
He preached his first sermon, “Coming Clean with Myself,” on April 15, 2007. With excellence and dedication, he has served in various roles, including Youth Pastor, Young Men’s Sunday School Teacher, and Co-organizer of The Rising Star’s inaugural Men’s Day and Youth Day services. His passion for ministry extends beyond the church walls, as he and his family consistently work to feed and assist underserved communities. His unwavering commitment to ministry is driven by one central mission: Soul-winning. Guiding people to the unconditional love of Christ and uplifting the communities where he serves and lives are at the heart of his calling
Elder Leonard Collins has dedicated 25 years to the United States Postal Service and 9 years to Southwest Airlines. He is lovingly supported by his wife of 26 years, Mrs. Debra Marie Collins, a native of Oakland, CA. Together, they are blessed with four children and seven grandchildren. Elder Collins is deeply committed to God, his family, and his ministry service.