Retreat Leader

The Very Reverend Anthony B. Holder

Born and raised in the Caribbean island of Barbados, The Very Reverend Anthony Brian Holder is the eldest son of Anthony B. Sr. and Audrey Haynes Holder. He received his elementary and high school education in Barbados. In 1993, he graduated with his theological degree from Codrington Theological Seminary and the University of the West Indies.

Father Holder was ordained to the Diaconate on the Feast of St. Bartholomew in 1993 at Christ Church, Barbados where he served as Assistant Curate for two years. He was elevated to the Priesthood on the Feast of St. Michael and All Angels in 1994 at the Cathedral Church of St. Michael and All Angels, Barbados. He was called to be Rector of Holy Trinity, Barbados, where he served from 1995 to 1998. In 1998, he was called as Rector of St. Cyprian’s, Barbados, where he served until his call to be Vicar of St. Michael’s, O’Fallon, IL. During his parish ministry in Barbados, Father Holder served as Chairman and members of Boards of management of various schools. He was also a former member of the Diocesan Commission on Evangelism.

Since being called to the Diocese of Springfield, in addition to being Vicar of St. Michael’s, Father Tony has held a number of Diocesan positions. He serves as Spiritual Director for “Happening” and Episcopal Church Camp, Member of the Department of Communication and Web Manager of the Diocese, Member of Diocesan Council and Provincial Synod delegate.  In September 2003 he was elected Dean of the Darrow (Western) Deanery and one month later was elected to the Standing Committee and appointed Chair of the Department of National and World Mission.

In his free time, he enjoys reading and working out at the gym. He is an artist and an avid tennis player.

Dean Holder is married to the former Judith De-Ann Blackman and they have one son, Tadhg Anthony.