Barbara Brown Taylor, an author, American Episcopal priest, and academic, has had many jobs in her life, but her favorite job was teaching. She was a full-time professor at Piedmont College, where she taught for 20 years until she retired in 2017. Before that, she was heavily involved in the Episcopal Church. She was ordained in 1984 and became the rector of Grace-Cavalry Episcopal Church in Clarkesville, Georgia in 1992. Taylor grew up in the South and attended Emory University in Atlanta, where she received her Bachelor's of Arts degree in religion. She later went to Yale Divinity School and received her Master's of Divinity.
Taylor's literary endeavors predominantly explore spirituality, faith, and religion, crafted in a manner accessible to a wide audience. Influenced by her roles as a priest and an educator, her writings reflect her experiences within the church and the classroom. In her memoir, "Holy Envy," she shares poignant moments of encountering diverse faiths and cultures, fostering a spirit of curiosity and mutual respect among her students.
Her teaching experiences sparked a personal quest for a more inclusive and expansive understanding of Christianity, leading her to embrace opportunities to engage with various spiritual traditions. Recognized as Georgia's Author of the Year in 2006, Taylor's books, including "An Altar in the World," "Learning to Walk in the Dark," and "Holy Envy: Finding God in the Faith of Others," have garnered acclaim, earning spots on the New York Times Bestseller list.
In 2014, Taylor's influence transcended literary circles as she was named one of TIME's 100 most influential people for her profound insights into faith and her ability to inspire believers and nonbelievers alike. Additionally, she was honored with the Emory Medal by the Emory Alumni Association for her contributions to education. Through her writing and teachings, Barbara Brown Taylor continues to illuminate paths of understanding and spiritual growth for readers and seekers worldwide.