Speaking Engagements

“Being upright doesn’t mean being uptight!”

In this lively presentation drawn from his latest book, Father Bill blends real-life stories with the Psalmist’s invitation: “Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good!” With themes of gratitude, openness, and spiritual transformation, his message takes audiences on a journey that is at turns deeply moving and laugh-out-loud funny. By the end, you’ll be ready to raise a glass to a vision of faith that is joyful, authentic, and full of life.

Conversations with DOG is a one-hour presentation that celebrates the sacred bond between humans, creation, and especially the animals who share our lives. Rooted in faith tradition—and sprinkled with a good dose of “furry revelation”—Father Bill weaves humorous and heartwarming stories about his “Holy Trinity of Terriers”: Sam, Jack, and Wili.

At the heart of the program is Sam, the “fearless earless Airedale,” who survived a devastating house fire that claimed his ears but never dimmed his spirit, and Nawiliwili “Wili” Nelson, who overcame cancer and brought joy to countless people during his inspiring “Last Howlelujah Tour.” Through Sam and Wili’s example, Father Bill explores a “spirituality on all fours”—a way of living that is grounded, earthy, honest, and joy-filled.

He also introduces Dog’s four “spiritual disciplines”—practical lessons for cultivating balance and meaning in everyday life. The presentation concludes with moving readings from The Gospel According to Sam and The Last Howlelujah, leaving audiences inspired, uplifted, and reminded of the deep wisdom our four-legged companions can teach us.

“NET” Workshop

Where else can you find a congregational development workshop with hula dancing, macadamia nuts, and tropical drink umbrellas? Only here.

Blending inspiration with practical wisdom, Father Bill draws on more than 20 years of ministry in four very different congregations—each of which experienced remarkable, uncommon growth. Drawing from his years serving on the island of Kauai, he uses the Hawaiian hukilau (a communal method of fishing) as a vivid metaphor for congregational life and growth: mending, casting, and gathering the net together.

Through stories both humorous and heartfelt, he unpacks three essential values for effective ministry—Context, Collaboration, and Creativity—and shows how churches of all sizes and traditions can navigate transition and transformation with renewed purpose.

The workshop is flexible and available in three-hour, six-hour, or nine-hour formats.