Our Pastor

Biographical Sketch of Reverend Dr. Caroles Shedrick Taylor

Reverend Dr. Caroles Shedrick Taylor hails from Sumter, South Carolina, where his journey as a spiritual leader began. He shares his life with his beloved partner Charliss Cooper, and together they are proud parents to two children, Chanee and Jordan, who have blessed them with the joy of eight grandchildren. Dr. Taylor's educational journey has been a testament to his dedication and passion. He earned his degree from Morris College in Sumter, South Carolina, before pursuing higher education at Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio. His quest for knowledge led him to the prestigious United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio, where he achieved the esteemed Doctor of Ministry Degree. Driven by his thirst for wisdom, he pursued further studies at Eden Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri, and the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri.

Having touched countless lives with his spiritual guidance, Rev. Dr. Taylor most notably served as the thirteenth pastor of the Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Columbia, Missouri. His pastoral journey commenced at the Enon Missionary Baptist Church in his hometown of Sumter, South Carolina, on August 12, 1984, guided by the mentorship of Rev. Lewis Walker, Jr. Ordained in December 1988 at the Second Missionary Baptist Church in Columbia, Missouri, under the leadership of The Rev. Dr. Clanton C. W. Dawson, Jr., he embarked on a path of spiritual leadership.

Before arriving at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, Rev. Dr. Taylor devoted three years to shepherding the St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church in Wellsville, Missouri, enriching his pastoral experience and deepening his connection to the community.

Rev. Dr. Taylor's commitment extends beyond the pulpit as he imparts his wisdom through teaching. He has been an instrumental figure in the Missionary Baptist State Convention of Missouri - Minister's Division, the Missouri State Congress of Christian Education, the Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist District Convention, and the Baptist Education and Missionary Convention of South Carolina Congress of Christian Education Minister's Division. He has guided church leadership retreats in both Missouri and Ohio, leaving a lasting impact on congregations.

His service within the Mt. Carmel District has been nothing short of remarkable, holding roles ranging from Moderator to District Missionary. He has played a pivotal role in the Missionary Baptist State Convention of Missouri Minister’s Division, serving as Director and Lecturer.

Most recently, Rev. Dr. Taylor served as an Associate Minister to Pastor Isaac J. Holt of the Royal Missionary Baptist Church in North Charleston, where his influence continues to inspire and uplift.

In November 2019, Rev. Dr. Taylor achieved yet another milestone with the publication of his inaugural book entitled, Church Membership, a testament to his dedication to sharing knowledge and spiritual insights. Reverend Taylor's affiliation includes membership in Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.

With a legacy marked by his unwavering faith, profound teachings, and tireless service, Rev. Dr. Caroles Shedrick Taylor remains a beacon of light in the lives of many, embodying the spirit of compassion and leadership. It is with this faith that he embarks upon this exciting new chapter as the 8th Pastor of the Historic Morris Street Baptist Church.