William Kerr (bishop) facts for kids

William Shaw Kerr (born 1873 – died February 2, 1960) was an important Irish bishop. He was the very first Bishop of Down and Dromore in the Church of Ireland.

William Shaw Kerr was born in 1873. He studied at Trinity College, Dublin. He became a priest in 1897. His first job was as a curate in Lurgan. A curate is like an assistant priest.

Later, he became the Rector of Banbridge. A rector is the main priest in a church parish. He also served as an Archdeacon in Dromore. An archdeacon helps the bishop manage the churches in an area. Before becoming a bishop, he was the Dean of Belfast. A dean is a senior priest who leads a cathedral.

William Shaw Kerr was chosen to be the Bishop of Down and Dromore on December 9, 1944. He officially became a bishop on January 25, 1945. He retired from his role on July 31, 1955. He passed away on February 2, 1960.