While living in Ireland, Ann Preston left home as a teen, taking up as a housekeeper to strict Methodist, Dr. Robert Reid and his family. Soon she moved with them to Canada, settling in Thornhill, Ontario.

Having found God through the doctor, she developed an intimate relationship with God. She took to constant reflection, often praying out loud and about each and every seemingly insignificant thing. “Father, where did I put that laundry? Father, what am I going to do about supper tonight?’, ‘Father, help me through today…” Neighborhood children once wrote “Holy Ann lives here. Go in and have a Word” on the door of the Reid home, and the name stuck.

Once mocked, however, she was soon a legend when it was rumored that she was able to perform miracles. One hot summer, the well had gone dry. She prayed an entire day and night, and the next morning was able to pull out two buckets full of fresh water. Soon, neighbors flocked to her side to receive healing and prayer.

Upon her death she was mentioned by clergy across the province and the Mayor of Toronto stated, “This week I had two honors. I met with the President of the USA and I participated in the funeral of Ann Preston. I regard the latter as the greater honour!”

The life of Ann Preston will stir every reader to a deep prayer life and holy living.