Pastor Dawyne Dawkins Biography
Pastor Dwayne Dawkins is a godly man who is fervently committed to sharing the gospel and leading people to eternal life.
He was brought up in a Christian home in New York, where he was taught the appropriate thing to do in order to avoid wronging God.
He joined the military at the age of 14, served for a while, and then left after realizing his God-given mission.
Pastor Dwayne taught for eight years at a New York City public school before taking on the role of student advisor at a university.
He has also acknowledged that Bishop Timothy Clark serves as his spiritual father and guide in the ministry.
Pastor Dawyne Dawkins’ Wikipedia
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dwayne Henry Dawkins Sr. |
| Date of Birth | Not publicly disclosed |
| Age | Estimated early-to-mid 50s |
| Place of Birth | Long Island / New York City, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Education | – B.Sc. in Elementary Education (SUNY Old Westbury) – Master’s in Urban Ministry (Alliance Theological Seminary, NY) |
| Ministry Calling | Age 14 |
| Church Affiliation | Praise Tabernacle International (Fort Lauderdale, FL) |
| Former Role | President, Eastern New York General Assembly Youth Organization |
| Ministry Brand | Founder & CEO, DHDawkins Ministries |
| Current Residence | Atlanta, Georgia |
| Marital Status | Married to Lady Tamia Dawkins |
| Children | 3 sons: D.H. Dawkins II, Daryn Nathanael, Dathyn Declyn |
| Known For | Powerful preaching, youth leadership, and inspirational speaking |
| 2022 Scandal | Leaked sex tape involving another man; publicly admitted and addressed it |
| Sexuality | Admitted to bisexual attractions (not self-identified as bisexual) |
| Public Response | Mixed, controversy, criticism, and support; emphasized healing and fatherhood |
| Current Focus | Teaching, personal restoration, and reduced ministry activity |
| Height & Weight | Not officially disclosed; approx. 195 lbs (unverified) |
| Net Worth | Unverified; online estimates range from $80,000 to $4 million |
Pastor Dawyne Dawkins’ Early Life & Education
Pastor Dwayne Dawkins was born and raised in Long Island, New York, in a devout Christian household.
He was heavily influenced by the faith and discipline of his great-grandparents, who played a foundational role in shaping his spiritual outlook.
From a young age, Dwayne was immersed in church culture and spiritual teachings, which fueled his passion for ministry and service.
At just 14 years old, he felt a strong calling to serve in ministry, a decision that would guide the rest of his life.
This early spiritual awakening led him to begin preaching and taking on leadership roles in youth ministry within his church community.
To support his calling with academic credentials, Pastor Dawkins pursued higher education:
He obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from SUNY Old Westbury in New York.
Later, he furthered his theological and ministry training by earning a Master’s Degree in Professional Studies in Urban Ministry from the Alliance Theological Seminary, also in New York.
This solid academic foundation allowed him to combine educational insight with spiritual leadership, equipping him for both the pulpit and the classroom.
His dual passion for education and ministry continues to influence his work today.
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Pastor Dawyne Dawkins’ Ministry & Career
Pastor Dwayne Dawkins began his ministry journey as a teenager after receiving his calling at the age of 14.
He quickly became involved in youth leadership within the Church of God in New York, where his passion, charisma, and ability to connect with young people earned him widespread respect.
He served notably as the President of the Eastern New York General Assembly Youth Organization, a role that allowed him to mentor and inspire a generation of Christian youth.
Through conferences, workshops, and preaching engagements, he became a recognized voice in youth ministry.
In 2006, Dawkins took a major step in his spiritual career by becoming the Senior Pastor of Praise Tabernacle International (formerly Church of God of West Broward) in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Under his leadership, the church expanded its reach, embraced community outreach, and grew in membership.
His preaching style, often described as passionate, practical, and relatable, made him a favorite among congregants.
To broaden his impact, Pastor Dawkins founded DHDawkins Ministries, a platform designed to provide: Spiritual empowerment, Educational resources, Motivational events, and Support for leadership development
His ministry extended beyond the pulpit, touching areas such as Education, Urban leadership, Marriage and family counseling, and Community advocacy
In addition to his pastoral work, Dawkins also returned to teaching in classroom settings, especially after facing personal challenges.
He sees education as a calling equal to ministry, often blending both roles in his work today.
Despite the controversy that surrounded his name in 2022 (related to a leaked video scandal), Pastor Dwayne Dawkins remains committed to healing, transparency, and helping others grow through their life challenges.
He continues to speak publicly, teach, and offer counsel as part of his ongoing mission to serve others.
Pastor Dawyne Dawkins’ Family & Personal Life
Pastor Dwayne Dawkins is married to Lady Tamia Dawkins, and together they have three sons: D.H. Dawkins II, Daryn Nathanael Dawkins, and Dathyn Declyn Dawkins.
Originally from Long Island, New York, the family later moved to Florida, where Pastor Dawkins served as Senior Pastor at Praise Tabernacle International.
Following the public scandal in 2022 involving a leaked intimate video, the Dawkins family faced intense scrutiny and emotional strain.
Pastor Dawkins openly confessed to struggling with bisexual attractions and revealed he contemplated suicide but chose to live for his children.
Despite the challenges, he and Tamia have remained together, reportedly working through the aftermath with counseling and spiritual guidance.
They now reside in Atlanta, Georgia, where he has shifted focus to education and personal healing.
Pastor Dawyne Dawkins’ 2022 Scandal & Public Response
In March 2022, Pastor Dwayne Dawkins became the center of controversy after a leaked sex tape surfaced online, allegedly showing him in an intimate act with another man, identified by some sources as a male escort.
The video first appeared on Reddit before spreading to Twitter, causing widespread shock and backlash, particularly due to Dawkins’ previous outspoken stance against homosexuality in his ministry.
After initial silence, Pastor Dawkins publicly confirmed he was the individual in the video, admitting to struggling with bisexual attractions, although he emphasized that it was not his identity.
He expressed deep shame and regret, revealing that the incident pushed him into a dark mental space where he contemplated suicide, even going as far as reviewing his life insurance policy.
However, he ultimately decided to live for the sake of his family, especially his three sons.
The scandal led to a major shift in his life and ministry, prompting him to step back from active pastoral duties and move to Atlanta, Georgia, where he now focuses on healing, teaching, and personal restoration.
Pastor Dawkins’ public confession and vulnerability sparked a mixed response, criticism from some religious circles, but also compassion and support from others who saw his story as one of human struggle and redemption.
Pastor Dawyne Dawkins’ Net Worth
There’s no publicly confirmed source for Pastor Dwayne Dawkins’s exact net worth. Most biographical sites report that the figure is undisclosed, while some speculate wildly, ranging from modest estimates of $80,000–$85,000 to multi-million-dollar figures. One source even suggests a net worth of $4–6 million USD.
FAQs
1. Who Is Pastor Dwayne Henry Dawkins Sr.?
Pastor Dwayne Henry Dawkins Sr. is an American pastor, educator, and founder of DHDawkins Ministries. Born and raised in Long Island, New York, he began preaching at age 14 and later earned degrees in education and ministry. He served as Senior Pastor of Praise Tabernacle International in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and was known for youth leadership and dynamic sermons. In 2022, he faced a major scandal when a leaked video of him with another man went viral, leading him to publicly admit struggles with bisexual attractions and step away from full-time ministry. Now based in Atlanta, he focuses on teaching, personal healing, and speaking out about redemption and identity. He is married to Tamia Dawkins and has three sons.
2. When did you first feel called to ministry?
I accepted Christ formally at the age of 12 and felt the call to preach by the age of 14. I was deeply involved in church, and I knew early on that God was setting me apart for something greater.
— Source: Black Street Online Interview, 2012
3. How did you respond to your calling?
With obedience. I told my family and church leadership, and they nurtured my growth. I started working with youth and eventually rose into leadership within the Church of God community in New York.
4. What was it like transitioning from a teacher to a full-time pastor?
I loved teaching, but I knew I was being pulled deeper into ministry. Though I initially struggled with leaving education, I embraced full-time pastoral work after much prayer. Today, I still consider myself a teacher, just in a different kind of classroom.
5. How has being a young pastor influenced your ministry?
It helps me connect with younger generations, though I’ve also earned the respect of older members. Age can be a challenge in ministry, but I’ve learned to let God’s anointing do the talking.
6. Do you mentor others? What does mentorship mean to you?
Absolutely. Mentorship is critical, both formal and informal. I’ve had mentors who stayed for a season, and others who are like family. Everyone needs guidance, including leaders.
7. Who are your mentors?
One of my most impactful mentors is Bishop Timothy Clarke of Columbus, Ohio. I’ve also had countless spiritual and professional mentors throughout the years.
8. How do you stay grounded and continue growing personally and spiritually?
I read a lot, travel, observe life, and surround myself with truth-tellers. A quote I love is: “The goldfish thought he was something, until someone told him about oceans.” It reminds me to stay humble and always hungry for growth.
9. What initiatives has your ministry supported?
Youth-focused concerts and productions
Partnerships with local businesses (e.g., Walmart outreach)
School supply drives, food distribution, and grocery gift cards
Leadership training in areas like entrepreneurship, family, health, and spirituality
10. What is the goal of DHDawkins Ministries?
To empower and equip individuals spiritually, mentally, and economically. We focus on transformation, not just inspiration.
11. What was your response to the 2022 scandal?
I acknowledged my mistake, shared openly about my struggles with sexual identity, and sought healing. I contemplated ending my life, but chose to live for my children and purpose. I am still in the process of healing.
12. How has your family handled the situation?
It has been incredibly difficult, especially for my wife Tamia. We’ve gone through counseling and are working together on restoration. My sons are my greatest motivation to move forward.
13. What are you doing now?
I’ve stepped away from full-time pastoring and relocated to Atlanta. I’m now focused on teaching, healing, and speaking to others who are walking through shame, confusion, or identity crisis.
14. What’s your message to those struggling with similar issues?
You’re not alone. God loves you. No mistake defines your future. Be honest, seek help, and choose life.
In Conclusion
Pastor Dwayne Dawkins’s life is a story of early spiritual dedication, public ministry success, personal struggle, and ongoing redemption.
From his humble beginnings in New York to leading a large congregation in Florida, he has touched many lives through his teachings and leadership.
The 2022 scandal marked a turning point that tested his faith, identity, and public image. Yet, in facing his vulnerabilities openly, he has embraced a journey of healing and restoration.
Today, Pastor Dawkins continues to inspire others, not just through sermons, but through his honesty, resilience, and commitment to growth as a father, teacher, and man of God.
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