In an inspiring first annual address, Rev. Elgin J. Taylor Sr., the newly elected president of the Empire Baptist Missionary State Convention, took to the podium in Albany on Thursday, October 24, 2024, to speak on the future of the convention and the role faith plays in shaping the lives of the more than 300 Baptist churches he now oversees across New York State.

Taylor, who has served as the pastor of Sweet Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church in Arbor Hill since 2010, was recently appointed to lead the state convention, an honor he described as both a dream fulfilled and an emotional milestone. As the 18th president of the Empire Baptist Missionary Convention, Taylor’s leadership will guide the organization through a wide range of missionary and outreach efforts, both within New York and abroad. The convention’s work includes foreign missions, educational initiatives, and humanitarian projects that support churches and communities in need.

In his address, Rev. Taylor reflected on the deep roots of faith in his life, sharing stories from his childhood when he would play “church” with his siblings and cousins in the basement of their home. “I always told my family that I would be a pastor when I grew up,” Taylor recalled. “And now, to be standing in this place—leading an organization that my family has served in for generations—it’s an overwhelming feeling of joy and gratitude.”

Rev. Taylor comes from a long line of ministers, with six generations of his family having been active members of the Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church. His sense of calling to ministry was nurtured from an early age, and his leadership within the Empire Baptist Missionary State Convention comes as the culmination of years of dedication and service. He began his formal ministry training in 2006 under Rev. Ronald Grant at the Shiloh Baptist Church of Hudson, where he served as executive minister and minister of music. Taylor was ordained in 2010, and since then, he has held several key leadership positions within the convention, including director of music, president of the young people’s auxiliary, and vice president at-large.

“I’ve always felt that this moment was part of my destiny,” said Taylor. “To be called to lead the convention now, after years of service, is truly humbling. But it’s also a testament to the faithfulness of my family, who served this body before me.”

As president, Taylor will oversee the convention’s many initiatives, including organizing missionary projects both locally and globally. “Our mission is to help people and churches, not just here in New York, but around the world. Our work is not just about spiritual guidance, but about meeting the physical and emotional needs of those we serve,” Taylor explained. “We are responsible for assembling the team that drives our programming and ensures we fulfill our mission.”

The convention, founded to promote the spiritual and social well-being of African American Baptists in New York, has long played a pivotal role in the religious and community life of the state. Taylor’s leadership comes at a time when the church faces both opportunities and challenges, especially in an increasingly secular society. Yet, he remains confident in the ability of the convention to adapt and thrive.

One of his first priorities as president will be to ensure that the convention’s programming is accessible, inclusive, and impactful. He also aims to focus on expanding the convention’s missionary work, further solidifying the organization’s reputation as a powerful force for social justice and community support.

Although his new role requires significant travel and involvement in statewide initiatives, Rev. Taylor emphasized that his commitment to his congregation at Sweet Pilgrim remains unwavering. His church is currently embarking on a fundraising campaign to support a $1.6 million expansion project to modernize their 147-year-old building. The project includes making the church more accessible for senior worshippers and individuals with mobility challenges. Taylor’s devotion to his local congregation speaks to his deep sense of responsibility both as a pastor and a community leader.

“My focus will always be on my church,” said Taylor. “Sweet Pilgrim is my home. The work we do here is just as important as the work I do at the state level. My priority will always be to serve my people.”

Rev. Taylor’s leadership marks a new chapter for the Empire Baptist Missionary State Convention, one that promises growth, compassion, and a renewed commitment to serving others. His address was a poignant reminder of the power of faith, family, and service—and a testament to the legacy of the generations who came before him.

As Taylor embarks on this new journey, he remains grounded in the teachings that have shaped his life and his ministry: “We are here to serve, to give, and to love. That is the mission of our convention, and that will always be the heart of my leadership.”

For more information on the Empire Baptist Missionary State Convention and its programs, visit [Empire Baptist Missionary State Convention website].