Ann Holmes Redding facts for kids

Anne Holmes Redding (born October 22, 1951) is a former Episcopal priest who became a Muslim. This led to her being removed from her role as a priest in April 2009. She grew up in Cheyney, Pennsylvania. Her father, Louis L. Redding, was a well-known civil rights lawyer in Delaware.

Redding feels connected to both her Christian and Muslim faiths "100 percent." She explains this by saying it's like being both an African American and a woman at the same time. Her views have caused both excitement and discussion among people in the Episcopal and Muslim communities. She still attends services at the Episcopal Church and also worships with the Al-Islam Center of Seattle.

Who is Anne Holmes Redding?

Anne Holmes Redding's journey of faith has been a topic of much interest. She was an Episcopal priest for many years. In March 2006, she decided to become a Muslim. This decision was very important in her life.

Her Faith Journey

Because she became a Muslim, the Episcopal Church began a process to review her position. In July 2007, she was placed under special guidance. After a period of review, she was officially removed from her role as a priest on April 1, 2009. This happened just one week after her 25th anniversary of becoming a priest.

Education and Teaching

Anne Holmes Redding has a strong educational background. She graduated from Brown University in 1976. She also earned advanced degrees from the General Theological Seminary in 1983 and Union Theological Seminary in 1999.

She has taught at several universities and seminaries. These include Pacific Lutheran University and Seattle University. Before becoming a Muslim, she worked at St. Mark's Episcopal Cathedral, Seattle. There, she helped people learn about faith.

Sharing Her Message

Since her faith journey began, Redding has continued to share her experiences. She speaks, preaches, teaches, and writes about how Islam and Christianity can connect. She has given talks at places like Riverside Church in New York City and Oberlin College in Ohio.

She also co-authored a book called Out of Darkness Into Light. This book explores spiritual guidance from the Quran. It also includes thoughts from Christian and Jewish sources.