The First African Methodist Episcopal Church of Los Angeles (FAME Church), founded in 1872 by Biddy Mason, is the oldest African American–founded church in the city and now one of its largest, with over 19,000 members. Known as a centre of worship, activism, and community service, FAME has played a key role in civil rights, housing, education, and disaster relief. Its current building on Harvard Boulevard, designed in 1968 by architect Paul R. Williams, reflects its enduring presence. Guided for decades by Rev. Cecil “Chip” Murray, the church became a powerful spiritual and civic institution, living out its mission of being “First to Serve.