Biography
Full Name: Herman Reynolds
Birth: – (Date not recorded)
Home Calling (Death): – (Date not recorded)
Native Place: West Virginia
Country: United States of America
Place of Vision: India
Early Life and Calling
Herman Reynolds was an American missionary who dedicated his life to serving God among the people of Central India. He was born in West Virginia, USA, and from a young age felt a deep desire to serve God in ministry.
He completed his education at Lynchburg Christian College, and later pursued ministerial training at Vanderbilt University. During his time of preparation, Herman’s heart was burdened for missions and reaching those who had not yet heard the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
He married Mildred Pritchett, a woman who shared the same spiritual vision and passion for missionary service. Together, they joined the College of Missions, where they not only received practical training for missionary work but also served as pastors in Yale, ministering to local congregations while preparing for their overseas calling.
Missionary Journey to India
Led by the Holy Spirit, Herman and Mildred answered God’s call to India. In 1927, they joined the Indian Mission and arrived in Jabalpur, located in Central India. After spending some time learning the local language and culture, they were appointed to serve in a new mission station at Kotmi, in the present-day Chhattisgarh region.
The people of Kotmi were simple, tribal, and largely uneducated, making it challenging to communicate the Gospel effectively. However, Herman approached them as a friend, living among them and sharing the message of Christ through love and service rather than through words alone.
Ministry and Service in Kotmi
Herman and Mildred settled near the village in a small tent, choosing to live close to the people they served. Herman ministered among the men, preaching the Scriptures, teaching practical skills, and helping them improve their daily lives. Mildred, with a compassionate heart, reached out to the women and children, teaching them domestic skills, hygiene, and literacy.
Together, they established a school and a small dispensary, which helped improve education and healthcare in the area. Their ministry soon bore fruit — many villagers experienced God’s love and came to faith in Christ.
For a brief period, Herman moved to Mungeli, where he carried out intensive evangelistic work among the Satnami people, a large community group in that region. Later, he returned to Kotmi to continue his missionary activities, strengthening the local believers and training new disciples.
A Life Compelled by Christ’s Love
The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 5:14, “For the love of Christ compels us.”
Herman Reynolds truly lived by this verse. His deep love for God and for people drove him to serve tirelessly, both in India and in America.
Even during his short furloughs back in the United States, Herman continued to serve the Lord. He worked as a chaplain in Minnesota, sharing God’s Word and inspiring believers at the Church of America with his faith-filled sermons and humble spirit.
Legacy
Herman Reynolds’ life stands as a testimony of faith, courage, and obedience. Together with his wife Mildred, he helped transform lives in remote parts of India through education, medical care, and the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Their work among the tribal communities of Central India laid a strong foundation for future Christian missions in that region. The seeds they planted in love continue to bear fruit even today, reminding us that when God calls, He also equips and sustains His servants.
🕊️ “The greatest call in life is to serve others in the name of Christ.” — The life of Herman Reynolds beautifully reflected this truth.