99 Names

As a stained glass artist it is exciting to experience and learn about other cultures and faiths through their art. In learning about Islam and Muslims we discover the tradition of the 99 Most Beautiful Names from the Qur'an; the 99 Names are an index of God's infinite characteristics, attributes of God which help the faithful navigate their place in the universe and provide direction for worship and emulation. They are a good starting point from which to begin the exploration of another faith because they represent ideals, aspirations and hopes common to us all. This is the first of 4 books, and collects the first 25 glass sculptures of my personal response to each of the 99 Names - a synthesis of research and discussion with members of many Muslim communities coupled with prayerful consideration and contemplation on what each Name means to me as a Christian. These sculptures are a record of my personal journey towards appreciation and understanding, and are shared in hopes that others will also find the beauty I discover in the faith of my fellow travelers in our human family.