Muslims and Christians breastfed from one another and related effects

Q: Is it permissible for a Muslim woman to breastfeed a Christian baby and vice versa? What is the ruling on this infant? Please, advise! As-salamu `alaykum warahmatullah wabarakatuh (May Allah's Peace, Mercy, and Blessings be upon you.)

A: First: It is permissible for a Muslim woman to breastfeed a Christian child; likewise, the Christian woman may breastfeed a Muslim child. This is originally permissible and there is no evidence forbidding this act. Indeed, it is an act of kindness. Allah has enjoined kindness on everything. It is authentically reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, There is a reward for serving any animate. Second: Breastfeeding does not affect the original religion of an infant; he who is a Muslim before breastfeeding remains a Muslim and he who is a Christian before breastfeeding remains as so after it. (Part No. 21; Page No. 62) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet, his Family, and Companions.