St. William was established in 1963. The name “William” was chosen by Archbishop Binz as a tribute to his predecessor, Archbishop William Brady, who had died unexpectedly in 1961. The first Masses were celebrated in Fridley High School gymnasium. Following a tornado on May 6, 1965, which damaged the high school, the parish moved into its partially finished church. St. William is known for its friendly hospitality, commitment to social justice and robust congregational singing.
