By the Rev. David Massey ’78, chaplain emeritus and retired assistant professor of religious studies
The Rev. Apel, “Bill,” touched his students and the community of Linfield by actively living out the principles of those saints who went before him, referred to by Bill as his “cloud of witnesses.” In fact, he had a sermon he often gave about them, in which he spoke about the characteristics of people, some from the past and some living, who modeled for us what it means to be faithful human beings.
These were names like Merton, M.L. King Jr., Desmond Tutu, Ghandi, Howard Thurman, the Dalai Lama, Sister Teresa, Julian of Norwich or your grandmother or neighbor. People who reflected in their lives Bill’s favorite biblical texts: Hebrews 12:1 and Micah 6:8. People whose lives were a witness to peacemaking, justice, compassion and dialogue. Those people displaying high value for humanity across differences, embracing the beauty of diversity. These folks were true “witnesses,” not in the sense of modern evangelists, but more akin to St. Francis’ charge to “preach the gospel every day and, when necessary, use words.” They lived the love.
Bill taught and modeled for us that these “witnesses” were representative of healthy religion and a spirituality that valued the notion that we are all made in the image of God. Indeed, Bill’s books emerged from this theme and these texts.
He was a narrative theologian who listened for people’s stories and reflected on how they captured the Holy. He was a teacher, pastor, provoker and encourager who inspired us by his aura, acceptance, playfulness and life.
We students were transformed by his lessons and left Linfield embracing these principles. Yes, Bill Apel lived the love and is now part of our “cloud of witnesses.”
Learn more about the Rev. Apel
- “Remembering Bill Apel, professor emeritus and former chaplain,” Linfield University LinkedIn post, published Sept. 23, 2024.
- “Dr. WIlliam D. Apel 1947-2024,” obituary in the News-Register.
- “Teaching, justice and love: The legacy of William Apel,” The Linfield Review, published April 30, 2011.
- “Dr. Bill Apel Interview,” oral history recording for “In Their Own Words,” Linfield Archives.
Other remembrances:
When news of the Rev. Apel’s passing was shared on Linfield’s social media, many in the community shared memories of Apel as a chaplain, professor and friend. Here are just a few:
“There are only a very few people I’ve met who were saint-like: fearless, strong, gentle, kind. Bill was one of those people.”
–Thomas L. Hellie, president emeritus
“His dedication to peace was admirable. I was surprised to discover he was a tenacious competitor on our weekly golf outings.”
–Dawn Graff-Haight, professor emeritus of health education
“He was such a caring person and a wonderful professor; I was grateful to get to know him during my years there.”
–Jennifer (Zody) Plantenberg ’00
“Bill was one of the most important influences on me early in my adult life. He touched the lives of thousands of students and people in a positive way. Condolences to Jane, Emily and Paul. We will miss you, Bill.”
–Andrew McNall ’88
