Rector · Theologian · Writer
Exploring the church's role in society through academia, art, and theological reflection.
Explore His WorkThe Rev. Dr. William J. Danaher received his Ph.D. in Religious Ethics from Yale University, his M.Div. from Virginia Theological Seminary, and his A.B. in History from Brown University. His awards and recognitions include the Bishop Hines Award for Preaching (2004), Pastor of the Year by the Metropolitan Christian Council of Detroit and Windsor (2016), and the Public Service Award from the Michigan Dental Association (2026), among many others.
Hello world!
"The antidote to one big story is the many stories being told."
— Bill Danaher's Academic Works and Art Library
Theological inquiry grounded in tradition, philosophy, and contemporary life.
A meditation on suffering, physical vulnerability, and the theological meaning of healing — exploring how the church has understood the body throughout history and what that means for communities today navigating illness, disability, and mortality.
This reflection examines how love and judgment are not opposites but intertwined — and what it means to hold both in faith, prayer, and relationship.
An exploration of how faith communities engage with social questions — justice, reconciliation, and the healing of civic life.
On Advent themes of hope, joy, love, and peace — how ancient rhythms of the church calendar invite us into practices of self-examination, repair, and grace.
Weekly sermons from Christ Church Cranbrook, exploring scripture, tradition, and the life of faith.
The Second Sunday of Advent · December 7, 2025
In this Advent sermon, Fr. Danaher explores the Christian tradition's "four last things" — death, judgment, heaven, and hell — and how love and judgment are not opposites but deeply intertwined. Drawing on Martin Buber's I and Thou and Adrienne Rich's poetry, he reflects on right relationship with God, self, and one another in an age of social fragmentation.
More Sermons on YouTubeFor speaking inquiries, academic correspondence, or pastoral matters, Fr. Danaher welcomes your message.