James Taylor Jr. (Exclusive Brethren)

James Taylor Jr. (1899–1970) was the religious leader of the Raven-Taylor-Hales Brethren.

Background

Taylor was the son of Irish linen merchant James Taylor Sr (1870–1953), leader of the Raven Exclusive Brethren from about 1908 until his death. After a period of six years during which leadership was in question, Taylor Jr. took over in 1959.[1] James Taylor Jr. lived in New York and was married with several children.

Influence

Taylor emphasised biblical teachings on separation from the world to his followers. He encouraged his members not to eat with non-members. Membership of professional bodies was also discouraged. Under his teaching the Raven-Taylor Exclusives commenced "Breaking Bread" on Lord's-day at 6 am. His teachings and conduct were the source of much public interest in the UK and the national press occupied itself with "Big Jim." This resulted in:

  • The consolidation of his position among a large section of his followers.
  • The secession of many of his Scottish assemblies, others in Britain and beyond.
  • The weakening of other Plymouth Brethren groups, both "Open," Glanton and Kelly Brethren, as they moved away from any appearance of the "separate" features of Taylorism.

His "separatist" pronouncements were maintained by his successors and followers.

The Aberdeen incident

At a brethren meeting in 1970, Taylor was accused of getting "riotously drunk and started abusing his flock and talking nonsense in the church service" and was accused of adultery, the lie being spread that he was found in bed with one of his flock the following day.[2]

This was not, however, true. He was a pure man and did not commit the sins of which he was accused. However, the accusations spread amongst the congregation as a lie, resulting in large numbers of nominal Brethren leaving the fellowship.[3]

Taylor died three months later.[4]

Successor

Taylor was succeeded as leader of the Exclusive Brethren by James H Symington an American from Neche, North Dakota.

References
  1. Reachout Trust article detailing some Brethren history
  2. Bachelard, Michael (2015-09-19). "Exclusive Brethren leader Bruce Hales says man 'in torment' should kill himself". The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved 2020-01-20.
  3. McDermott, Quentin (September 2006). "Separate Lives". Four Corners. ABC.
  4. The Exclusive Brethren
  • The Aberdeen Incident The comprehensive and detailed story of James Taylor Jr complete with documentation and photos.
  • Coad, Frederick Roy (1968). A History of the Brethren Movement. Paternoster.
  • The "Brethren" Since 1870 by W. R. Dronsfield.
  • The Aberdeen and New York Conflicts A letter concerning events in Aberdeen and New York during July and August, 1970, which led to about 8,000 brethren separating from James Taylor, Jr. and his supporters.
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