Being a priest is likened to being a shepherd. People do, from time to time, need a poke here or a prod there. But mostly, they need to know someone is watching out for them. Rev. William Billow has been that gentle guiding hand for multiple communities across the nation, but he is best known for his services in Washington, DC, from St. Albans School to Washington Cathedral. He practices "the ministry of presence," witnessing and overseeing the baptisms, weddings, and funerals of the members of his flocks. As he moves from community to community, his story does not fail to enlighten and inspire.
Industry Reviews
"Rev. Billow's voice is a perfect combination of Father Tim Kavanaugh (from the Mitford Series) and Larry David." -- Dorothy Bush Koch, author of My Father, My President: A Personal Account of the Life of George H.W. Bush
Will Billow is sui generis--a storytelling, sometimes profane, belly-laughing, even (at times) saintly priest who has guided and saved the lives of generations. Enjoy the read. -- Vance Wilson, Headmaster of St. Albans, 1999-2018, author of Each Day: A Veteran Educator's Guide to Raising Children
In this book we get more than a chronicling of a great man and minister of God; we get a vivid portrayal of someone who was at home with both homeless people and the movers and shakers of Washington DC, someone who let God work through him. -- Daniel R. Heischman, Executive Director of the National Association of Episcopal Schools
Just as Will Billow brightens every room he enters, his book will brighten the outlook of everyone who picks it up. From the stories of family, friends and faith emerge a joy in living that is simply contagious. If you want to learn some of the secrets of a life lived to the fullest, you'll find them on page after page of this poignant, and delightful, chronicle. -- Judy Woodruff, The PBS NewsHour
If you are lucky enough to read this book, you will understand how special Will Billow was as a mentor and teacher to our children and as a cherished family friend. The good reverend, like his book, doesn't just enter your life. He enriches it. -- Gloria Borger, CNN Chief Political Analyst
Will Billow's parish knows no boundaries. It runs from Washington DC to LA and then to points south and Midwestern. But all the really important stuff - about birth and love and laughter and death - unfolds here, in helpful and joyous tale of one chaplain's amazing life of service. -- Michael Duffy, co-author, The Presidents Club