To keep Fr. Bill’s legacy alive on his journey to sainthood — friars, family, caregivers and friends will build permanent sculptures in his likeness. The life-size bronze memorials of Fr. Bill, complete with a bench where visitors can pray and reflect, will be a constant reminder of his extraordinary life and the people he inspired and touched.
extraORDINARY
The Bill Atkinson Story
Hospitalized and near death, tragedy gave way to an incredible journey for the first quadriplegic priest in the history of the Catholic Church. In 1965, a tobogganing accident left 19-year-old Augustinian novice, Bill Atkinson paralyzed from the neck down. Nine years of relentless challenges faced Fr. Bill’s call to the priesthood. The powerful documentary on the life and impact of Fr. Bill, recently only available on PBS, is now available to all to view and download. His story will inspire and make you believe that saints do live among us everyday.
extraORDINARY
The Bill Atkinson Story
Hospitalized and near death, tragedy gave way to an incredible journey for the first quadriplegic priest in the history of the Catholic Church. In 1965, a tobogganing accident left 19-year-old Augustinian novice, Bill Atkinson paralyzed from the neck down. Nine years of relentless challenges faced Fr. Bill’s call to the priesthood. The powerful documentary on the life and impact of Fr. Bill, recently only available on PBS, is now available to all to view and download. His story will inspire and make you believe that saints do live among us everyday.
The Sculpture Committee
Fr. Bill was and continues to be a beacon of hope to those who have challenges. He struggled in life and continues to inspire all who pray for his intercession. As an all volunteer committee, we desire to spread the word on Fr. Bill to future generations. Join us to ensure Fr. Bill’s legacy lives on.
Edward Atkinson, Jr.
Ted Donnelly
Michael Farrell
Katie Campbell Garwood
Richard Heron
Marie Helmig Keith
Fr. Paul Morrissey, O.S.A.
Michael Pucillo
Jane Ryan
Rich Slinkard
Fr. Bill Waters, O.S.A.
The Cause of
Beatification
and Canonization
of Fr. Bill Atkinson, O.S.A.