William C. Wantland facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Right Reverend William C. Wantland D.D. |
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| Bishop of Eau Claire | |
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| Church | Anglican Church in North America |
| Diocese | Eau Claire |
| In Office | 1980–1999 |
| Other posts | Assisting Bishop, Episcopal Diocese of Fort Worth |
| Personal details | |
| Born | April 11, 1934 Edmond, Oklahoma |
William Charles Wantland, born on April 14, 1934, is an American Anglican leader. He used to be the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Eau Claire.
Contents
About William Wantland
William Wantland was born in Edmond, Oklahoma. He has family roots from the Seminole, Chickasaw, and Choctaw Native American tribes. In 1973, he and his family became official citizens of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma.
Early Career and Public Service
Before becoming a religious leader, Mr. Wantland worked as a lawyer. He served as a judge in his hometown of Seminole, Oklahoma. He was also a member of the Seminole City Council and even the vice-mayor.
He worked as the attorney general for the Seminole Nation for several years. This role meant he was the chief legal advisor for the tribe. He also led the Seminole Housing Authority, which helps provide homes.
Becoming a Religious Leader
With advice from a bishop, Mr. Wantland started working as a part-time priest. This means he had a regular job while also serving his church. Later, he became a full-time priest, dedicating all his time to his religious duties.
Serving as Bishop
In 1980, William Wantland became the Bishop of the Diocese of Eau Claire. During his time as bishop, he received a special honor. The Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians welcomed him into their community. They gave him the name 'Manido Nigani', which means "He who stands forth in the Spirit." This name recognized his important role as an Episcopal bishop.
After Retirement and New Roles
After retiring from the Diocese of Eau Claire in 1999, Mr. Wantland helped create the Anglican Church in North America. He was one of the first members of its House of Bishops. He also helped write the rules and laws for this new church group.
Today, he also serves as an assisting bishop for the Episcopal Diocese of Fort Worth. In 2011, he made history by becoming the first chief justice of the Supreme Court for the Seminole Nation.
Mr. Wantland has also taught at the University of Oklahoma College of Law and Seminole State College. He has written many books too.
Education and Learning
William Wantland attended many schools and colleges to gain his knowledge.
- Seminole High School in Seminole, Oklahoma
- Seminole State College
- University of Oklahoma
- George Washington University
- University of Hawaiʻi
- Oklahoma City University
- Oklahoma City University School of Law
- Geneva-St. Alban's Theological College
- Canterbury Christ Church University
- University of Cambridge
- St. Deiniol's Library, now Gladstone's Library
- College of Preachers
Family Connections
William Wantland's grandfather was Charles W. Wantland.
