William Edward McLaren

Biography

William Edward McLaren answered a calling to the Episcopal ministry early in life and brought a dignified yet approachable demeanor to every pulpit he occupied. After serving congregations in the East, he was elected bishop of the Diocese of Chicago, where he made his home and his labors.

He oversaw the building and restoration of churches, encouraged charitable work among the poor, and supported educational institutions that trained clergy and lay leaders. Bishop McLaren’s leadership helped sustain the Episcopal Church’s witness in a city marked by growth and change.