Saint John’s Seminary Mourns the Passing of Bishop William Murphy

Saint John’s Seminary joins the Church in mourning the death of Bishop William Murphy, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Rockville Centre, and gives thanks for his life of faithful and generous service to the People of God.

A native of West Roxbury and a son of the Archdiocese of Boston, Bishop Murphy pursued studies for the priesthood at Saint John’s Seminary in Boston before continuing his formation in Rome. He was ordained a priest at Saint Peter’s Basilica in 1964, beginning a lifetime of service marked by intellectual distinction, pastoral charity, and deep devotion to the universal Church.

Bishop Murphy served the Holy See in significant roles, including as an official of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, where he contributed to the development of the Church’s social teaching. His work helped shape the Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, an enduring resource for the faithful worldwide. He was widely respected for his expertise in international relations, his commitment to ecumenical and interreligious dialogue, and his dedication to promoting justice and peace.

Appointed the fourth Bishop of Rockville Centre in 2001, Bishop Murphy led the diocese for more than fifteen years with an evangelizing spirit, offering a joyful witness of prayer, preaching, and pastoral leadership. He was also known for his generosity in mentoring priests and bishops, and for championing the vocation and mission of the laity.

The community of Saint John’s Seminary commends Bishop Murphy’s soul to the mercy of God and unites in prayer with all who mourn his passing. His legacy of faithful service will continue to inspire future generations of priests and lay leaders.