Taylor Chapel Church History
1949 – 2023

Original Taylor Chapel
The establishment of Taylor Chapel Christian Methodist Episcopal (C.M.E.) Church in the year 1949 added a new chapter to the C.M.E. church history. Prior to this time, Black Methodists in the Vallejo, California area attended Kyles Temple A.M.E Zion Church in Vallejo, or they traveled to Richmond or Oakland to attend C.M.E. churches. Mrs. Mary F. Taylor and her three daughters longed for these inspiring and reverent services and wished for such a C.M.E. church in Vallejo.

Mrs. Taylor discussed the idea of a C.M.E. church in Vallejo and she eventually wrote to Rev. Wellington Smith, the Presiding Elder of the Oakland District, asking for his support in establishing a C.M.E. church in Vallejo. Elder Smith agreed that there was a need for a local C.M.E. church, so the work began.

On October 22, 1949, an organizational meeting was held in the home of Mr. and Mrs. John Lee at 1927 Florida Street in Vallejo. The new church was named “Taylor’s Chapel” in honor of Mrs. Mary F. Taylor, who laid the groundwork for its organization. There were 17 people at this historical first meeting and Elder Isaiah Scipio became the first pastor. After several years, a permanent structure was built where we are located today at 1203 Louisiana Street in Vallejo. The name of the church was changed from Taylor’s Chapel to Taylor Chapel.

Many pastors have come and gone since October 22, 1949, each playing a role in our growth and improvement. During the 2023-2024 Northern California Region Conference, Bishop Charley Hames, Jr. assigned the Holy Ghost-filled, God-fearing Rev. Talia Benet as pastor of Taylor Chapel. She brings a wealth of newness to our worship services with her powerful delivery of God’s Word.

We know, with God’s help and with God’s Grace, we will continue to build our church on the foundation of His Word. We pledge to allow Him to continually mold us to do His will.

In Loving Memory of

Mother Mary F. Taylor

Founder of Taylor Chapel C.M.E. Church

Taylor Chapel CME Church Family:

Take care of one another and your church.

Love, Mother Taylor