The Ritual Revolution: Rob Redding's Bold Challenge to the Church

In a moment where faith intersects with social justice, Rob Redding’s latest book, "Ritual," has sparked both controversy and acclaim, swiftly rising to No. 1 on Amazon. As the first out bisexual Black talk show host, Redding's voice has long been a clarion call for change. Now, with "Ritual," he targets the church’s complicity in homophobia, gun violence, and its monopolization of rituals—calling for a profound rethinking of religious practices.

“The church can have religion,” Redding states unequivocally. “But they cannot have ritual. Rituals are key to the LGBTQ queer movement and how we live and thrive.” This declaration sets the tone for a nearly 200-page investigation into the complex relationship between organized religion and societal norms.

"Ritual" delves into a series of poignant issues, including the retaliatory mass shooting in Tennessee by Aiden Hale, a tragic event that Redding uses to highlight the church's endorsement of the NRA. “As a Christian, it was painful to discover that guns are not killing our kids,” Redding explains. “God is in the way he is being promoted by misguided Christians.” This provocative statement underscores the need for a broader conversation about the role of religion in modern society.

In his groundbreaking book, Redding introduces the concept of Ritualmination—a transformative approach that advocates for separating rituals from rigid religious doctrines. This ensures their continued relevance and positive impact on society. Through historical examples and engaging queer storytelling, Redding argues for the urgent need to depoliticize religion and embrace inclusive, adaptable rituals. By decoupling rituals from political agendas, Ritualmination aims to foster genuine connections, promote social cohesion, and empower individuals and communities to develop meaningful practices that enhance personal well-being.

Redding’s critique extends to the alarming decline in church attendance, a crisis he believes cannot be ignored. "Ritual" not only examines the current state of religious institutions but also proposes practical solutions for creating independent branches within the church to monitor and regulate political rhetoric. The book combines historical analysis, contemporary case studies, and actionable recommendations, making it a vital read for anyone concerned about the future of faith, spirituality, and community.

Often called "the voice of the voiceless" and "the prophet of rage," Redding is celebrated by his listeners and readers as "America's Independent Voice." As the publisher of Redding News Review and the host of "Redding News Review Unrestricted," he has made a significant impact on American media, earning him a spot among Talkers Magazine's 100 Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America.

But Redding’s influence extends beyond the airwaves. He recently mounted a highly successful solo art show entitled "Black & White" at Morningside Heights Library in New York City for the entire month of September. Following that, he rocked the queer art world at the Soho Project Space of New York with a collection of 10 avant-garde reflective images that confronted racism among gay men. Last month, he joined Ikon Models, further diversifying his portfolio of creative expressions. "Ritual" is now his 16th consecutive best-selling book, solidifying his position as a prolific author and influential thought leader.

In "Ritual," Redding’s passion for social justice, combined with his fearless critique of institutional power, invites readers to reconsider the ways in which rituals can be reclaimed and redefined. It’s a bold, necessary conversation at a time when the intersection of faith and identity has never been more critical.