 Not knowing that Reynolds' parents had forbidden the action, the branch president, George Teasdale, baptized him on May 4, 1856; Reynolds was confirmed a member of the church by Teasdale on May 11, 1856.In December 1856, Reynolds was given the Aaronic priesthood and ordained to the office of deacon.He was responsible for opening the doors to the Sunday meetinghouse for the Somers Town Branch and organizing the seating in preparation for sacrament meeting.