My name is Adriana Evans. Originally from Patuxent River, Maryland, I grew up in a military family and moved frequently, so I often consider myself from San Diego. I recently graduated from college and am currently taking a break from studies.
I was raised in the Church of God in Christ (COGIC), a strict Christian denomination. From a young age, I was curious and asked many questions about the Bible, especially about apparent contradictions between the Old and New Testaments. This curiosity led me to explore my faith more deeply, including wearing a head covering as instructed in the Bible. I believed that many church practices conflicted with the teachings of the Bible, which prompted me to explore Orthodox Christianity.
In college, I encountered Muslims from diverse backgrounds. Initially, I was unfamiliar with Islamic greetings and practices, but my curiosity grew. Reading the book Misguided helped me understand how Christianity had evolved historically, often influenced by political and cultural changes, which sparked my interest in Islam. I appreciated that Islam is part of the Abrahamic tradition, recognizing the teachings of previous prophets, including Jesus, while preserving their messages.
Becoming a Muslim was challenging within my community, especially as an African American woman, due to misconceptions about Islam and its presence in the Black community. Despite some family pushback, I approached the process thoughtfully and gradually began practicing Islam, attending lectures and programs for women on campus. Eventually, I took my Shahada in a Sunni mosque, affirming my faith.
Later, my exploration of Shia Islam began through online lectures and resources, particularly learning about the importance of the Ahlul Bayt and the events of Ghadir. Understanding the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) family and their significance deeply resonated with me, leading me to embrace Shia practices. This step strengthened my spiritual connection and allowed me to follow Islam with clarity and conviction.
Within the Shia community, I experienced acceptance and support. People were often surprised to see an African American Shia, but this helped broaden understanding and unity within the community. I became involved in local programs, mosques, and gatherings that provided both education and spiritual guidance, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.
My family has been supportive throughout my journey, especially my parents. While initially adjusting to my new faith was challenging for them, they now actively support my practices, helping me access halal food and safe spaces for prayer. Their guidance and care have been invaluable in maintaining a balance between faith, safety, and daily life.
My journey taught me that learning about religion and different communities is valuable, regardless of whether one adopts every practice. Knowledge fosters understanding, reduces ignorance, and encourages personal growth. I encourage anyone exploring Islam or other faiths to seek firsthand knowledge from local communities, ask questions, and approach others with an open mind, rather than relying solely on media portrayals.
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Oct 28 2025
Conversion Story by “Adriana Evans”
My name is Adriana Evans. Originally from Patuxent River, Maryland, I grew up in a military family and moved frequently, so I often consider myself from San Diego. I recently graduated from college and am currently taking a break from studies.
I was raised in the Church of God in Christ (COGIC), a strict Christian denomination. From a young age, I was curious and asked many questions about the Bible, especially about apparent contradictions between the Old and New Testaments. This curiosity led me to explore my faith more deeply, including wearing a head covering as instructed in the Bible. I believed that many church practices conflicted with the teachings of the Bible, which prompted me to explore Orthodox Christianity.
In college, I encountered Muslims from diverse backgrounds. Initially, I was unfamiliar with Islamic greetings and practices, but my curiosity grew. Reading the book Misguided helped me understand how Christianity had evolved historically, often influenced by political and cultural changes, which sparked my interest in Islam. I appreciated that Islam is part of the Abrahamic tradition, recognizing the teachings of previous prophets, including Jesus, while preserving their messages.
Becoming a Muslim was challenging within my community, especially as an African American woman, due to misconceptions about Islam and its presence in the Black community. Despite some family pushback, I approached the process thoughtfully and gradually began practicing Islam, attending lectures and programs for women on campus. Eventually, I took my Shahada in a Sunni mosque, affirming my faith.
Later, my exploration of Shia Islam began through online lectures and resources, particularly learning about the importance of the Ahlul Bayt and the events of Ghadir. Understanding the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) family and their significance deeply resonated with me, leading me to embrace Shia practices. This step strengthened my spiritual connection and allowed me to follow Islam with clarity and conviction.
Within the Shia community, I experienced acceptance and support. People were often surprised to see an African American Shia, but this helped broaden understanding and unity within the community. I became involved in local programs, mosques, and gatherings that provided both education and spiritual guidance, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.
My family has been supportive throughout my journey, especially my parents. While initially adjusting to my new faith was challenging for them, they now actively support my practices, helping me access halal food and safe spaces for prayer. Their guidance and care have been invaluable in maintaining a balance between faith, safety, and daily life.
My journey taught me that learning about religion and different communities is valuable, regardless of whether one adopts every practice. Knowledge fosters understanding, reduces ignorance, and encourages personal growth. I encourage anyone exploring Islam or other faiths to seek firsthand knowledge from local communities, ask questions, and approach others with an open mind, rather than relying solely on media portrayals.
👇👇👇Watch Video:👇👇👇
By english • Chronicles of the converted to Shia • 0 • Tags: Adriana Evans, Conversion, conversion story, converted to Islam, Converted to Shia, Mostabserin, Reborn, Story