Bell was born and raised in the northern Palouse region of Washington.
Raised as an Episcopalian Bell became a Pentecostal minister and professor before returning to the Episcopal Church.
After completing seminary studies he was ordained to the priesthood in 1989 by Bishop Rustin R. Kimsey and began work at St. Matthew's Church in Ontario, Oregon.
In 2002 Bell was named the rector of St Luke's Church in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.
Bell's consecration took place on April 16, 2016 by Presiding Bishop Michael Curry.