Edward Holland (priest)

Edward Holland (1842-1916) was an Anglo-Catholic priest in the Church of England, known for his ministry in the slums of London and his advocacy for social justice.

Born in London, Holland was educated at Eton College and Christ Church, Oxford. He was ordained as a priest in 1866. He served as curate at St. Philip's, Stepney, before becoming vicar of St. Simon's, Bethnal Green in 1868. He remained at St. Simon's for over 40 years, dedicating himself to serving the impoverished community.

Holland was a prominent figure in the Christian Socialist movement. He believed that the Church had a responsibility to address social inequality and injustice. He was involved in various social reform initiatives, including advocating for better housing, education, and healthcare for the poor. He was a strong supporter of trade unions and workers' rights.

He was also a significant figure in the Anglo-Catholic movement, which emphasized the importance of sacraments, ritual, and the historical continuity of the Church of England with the wider Catholic tradition. He believed that Anglo-Catholicism provided a powerful framework for social action and personal piety.

Holland was a prolific writer and speaker. His sermons and essays addressed a wide range of theological and social issues. He was known for his passionate and eloquent preaching. He retired from St. Simon's in 1906 and died in 1916. He is remembered as a dedicated pastor, a passionate social reformer, and a significant figure in the history of Anglo-Catholicism.