From Labor to Reward

"Martha Taylor has developed a very significant book in chronicling a much needed history of the development of African-American Churches in the Bay Area during the period from 1848-1972. . . . The author's understanding of the development of religious communities in Diaspora is impressive, realistic, and informative, and deserves our attention."

--Paul M. Martin, Professor of Pastoral Theology, American Baptist Seminary of the West, Berkeley



"Taylor's passionate, probing perspective unveils the rich history of Black Church beginnings in the San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, and Richmond cities. Through meticulous research, she brings to light the struggles, strengths, and triumphs of everyday people who built strong religious communities in the face of adversity, racism, and political oppression. Scholars, clergy, and lay people will be intrigued and stimulated by this one-of-a-kind history book." 

--Barbara Lee, United States Representative, California 13th Congressional District



"This detailed history of the African-American Church in the Bay Area is a monumental contribution to the rich history of the Black Church in America in general. We all owe Dr. Taylor a debt of gratitude."

--James Perkins, President, Progressive National Baptist Convention Inc.



"This book is the [result] of meticulous historical research . . . to narrate the faith struggle and sacrifices of our African American pioneers and institution builders. May this book be placed on the shelves of our libraries in our homes, churches, and schools. May this book become one of the text books in the American religious history courses that are taught in seminaries."

--J. Alfred Smith Sr., Pastor Emeritus, Allen Temple Baptist Church, Oakland; Professor Emeritus, American Baptist Seminary of the West, Berkeley