William Sinclair (archdeacon of London) facts for kids

Ven. William Macdonald Sinclair, a respected church leader.

William Macdonald Sinclair (1850–1917) was an important Anglican priest and writer who lived in the late 1800s and early 1900s. He held many significant roles in the Church of England and was known for his writings.

Early Life and School

William Macdonald Sinclair was born on June 3, 1850. His father was also a priest, so he grew up in a family connected to the church. He went to a school called Repton School. After that, he studied at Balliol College, Oxford, which is a famous university in England.

Church Career

The Venerable Archdeacon Sinclair speaking at St Paul's Cathedral in London.

William Sinclair became a priest in 1876. His first job was helping out at a church in Marylebone, London. Later, he became a special chaplain to the Bishop of London, who is a very senior church leader.

In 1880, he became the vicar of St Stephen's Church in Westminster. A vicar is the priest in charge of a church. Then, in 1889, he was made the Archdeacon of London. An Archdeacon is a senior church official who helps the bishop manage churches and clergy in a certain area.

From 1892 to 1901, he was the editor of a church magazine called Churchman. This meant he was in charge of what was published in the magazine.

Public Service

Besides his church work, William Sinclair also helped with public education. In 1885, he was chosen to be a member of the London School Board. This board was responsible for managing schools in London and making sure children received an education.

He also served as a chaplain for military groups. He was a chaplain for the 21st Middlesex Rifle Volunteer Corps and later for the City of London Yeomanry. As a chaplain, he provided spiritual support and guidance to soldiers.

His last official church job was as the rector of Shermanbury from 1911 to 1915. He was also an Honorary Chaplain to the King, which meant he was a special priest who served the King. William Macdonald Sinclair passed away on December 4, 1917.

Books He Wrote

William Sinclair was also an author. He wrote several books, mostly about religious topics. Some of his published works include:

• The Psalms: The Authorised Version in the Original Rhythm (1879)
• Lessons on the Gospel of St John (1882)
• The Servant of Christ (1891)
• Words to the Laity (1895)
• Simplicity in Christ (1896)
• Difficulties of our Day (1905)
• Memorials of St Paul’s Cathedral; The Chapels Royal (1912)