Annual Benefit 2025

A Beloved Leader of Faith and Service

Monsignor William J. English has spent a lifetime devoted to faith, community, and the service of others. Loved and admired by countless parishioners, friends, and fellow clergy across the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., his remarkable journey is one of untiring dedication and continuous compassion.

Father English is a priest with a deep spirituality.  His faith is grounded in God’s love through Jesus Christ, which motivates and informs his vocation. All who meet him know through his ministry how God loves and treasures them. As a reconciler, he is always helping people resolve conflicts without taking sides, always non-judgmental, and deeply humble.

Msgr. English’s spiritual path began in Washington, D.C., where he attended St. Anthony's Grade School, followed by Gonzaga High School. Drawn to the priesthood, he entered St. Mary’s Seminary in Baltimore in 1965 and was ordained to the priesthood on May 17, 1969.

His ministry began at St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Silver Spring, Maryland, where he served through 1978, first as a deacon, and then as Associate Pastor. In these formative years, Msgr. English made an indelible mark by establishing innovative programs for young adults, such as long-form retreats for teenagers, making religious education a meaningful, immersive experience. He later continued his pastoral work as Associate Pastor at Our Lady of Victory in Washington, D.C., which he served from 1978 to 1984, laying the foundation for his dedicated years of service.

From 1984 to 2000, Msgr. English held key Archdiocesan leadership roles: Director of Ministry to Priests, Director of St. John Vianney House, Secretary for Parish Life & Worship, Secretary for Clergy, and Director of Priests’ Personnel. In each of these ministries, he brought his pastoral wisdom to the clergy and people of the Archdiocese of Washington. He fostered spiritual growth and fellowship through retreats, discussion sessions, and training programs. His dedication was recognized on June 23, 1991, when he was honored with the title of Monsignor.

He served as Pastor of St. John the Evangelist in Silver Spring from 2000 to 2004, and of Our Lady of Mercy in Potomac, Maryland, from 2004 to 2013. Since then, he has served as a visiting presider and preacher at both of these parish communities. He is grateful to be of service there, and to the many people and families who seek him out for their spiritual needs.

In 2015, he joined the Spirituality Team at Saint Luke Institute in Silver Spring, Maryland, offering guidance to clients as a Spiritual Integrator, working to bring a vital spiritual perspective to their mental and emotional healing. He remains a cherished member of the team and an esteemed colleague to clinicians and staff of SLI. He also serves on the Archdiocesan Committee for Child Protection and Safe Environment, the Priests’ Council, the College of Consultors, and the Retirement Board.

The impact of Msgr. English's pastoral ministry is vast. From couples’ spirituality groups he founded with parishioners, to baptizing countless children and adults, to witnessing the marriages of generations of families, and more, his life is deeply woven into the communities he loves. He is celebrated as a holy and patient man, whose care and prayers extend to all in need.

Msgr. William J. English’s extraordinary legacy of faith, leadership, and service continues to inspire and uplift – a clear witness to his lifelong commitment to the Church and its people.