William A. Barry

William (Bill) Barry, a distinguished spiritual director and author, was born in Worchester, MA. He entered the Society of Jesus in 1950, studied philosophy in Germany from 1953 until 1956, and was at Weston College for theology studies from 1959 until 1963. Ordained a priest in 1962, Barry went on to earn a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Michigan in 1968.

In 1969, he began teaching psychology at Weston School of Theology, Cambridge, MA, and in 1971 was named director for the Center for Religious Development. He served in both capacities until 1978, when he was put in charge of formation for the New England Jesuit Province. Barry was the Assistant Director of Novices for the Province (1985–88) when he was named Rector of Boston College.

From 1991 to 1997, he served as Provincial of the New England Jesuits. Following that, he was named co-director of the Jesuit Tertianship Program. Barry later directed retreats at Campion Center in Weston, MA.

Despite such a busy and committed life, Barry found the time to write more than 15 books, including The Practice of Spiritual Direction, God and You, Finding God in All Things, An Invitation to Love, Who Do You Say I Am?, Experiencing God in the Ordinary, and A Friendship Like No Other.

Barry had the rare ability to present complex spiritual issues in clear, well-written prose. He was one of the most significant Ignatian commentators of the early 21st century. He died in December of 2020, leaving a legacy that will long influence spiritual directors and seekers.