Video

The Rev. Dr. Cecil L. “Chip” Murray, who died April 5, 2024 at age 94, trained 1,000 faith leaders in community development and civic engagement at USC, building on an illustrious career as pastor of First African Methodist Episcopal (FAME) Church of Los Angeles.

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Until the pandemic, the Rev. Dr. Cecil L. “Chip” Murray was the first person in the USC Center for Religion and Civic Culture’s office every morning. Then 90 years old, he would open the gate to welcome guests looking for career or academic mentoring, advice about how to lead a church or take social action, or simply a compassionate ear.

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Building Knowledge, Strengthening Communities

Our mission is to advance the understanding of religion and society, and support faith and community leaders in becoming full partners in the work of positive social change.

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Center for Religion and Civic Culture
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA 90089-0520