As commanding in personality as he was serious in nature, Father M.J. Ward, nationally prominent lecturer, is outstanding in the history of Beloit’s clergymen.

He came to Beloit in 1883 to take charge of St. Thomas the Apostle Church, and to direct the affairs of one of the largest parishes in this community at that time.

Father Ward was born in Fond du Lac County. A tall, broad, powerful man, he developed tremendous strength on the farm of his parents. While nature seemed to mould him to the outdoors, he was studious and thoughtful, and first he turned his attention to law. His study of law nearly was completed when he decided to become a priest. He was ordained in 1872.

Administration of his Beloit congregation was not without early difficulties. St. Thomas Church burned in 1884, but immediately he hurled his energies into the construction of a new structure, larger and more imposing.

He was a lecturer of exceptional ability and an ardent foe of alcoholic drink. His virility and power and intense earnestness to that subject and to his church caused him to be much in demand as a speaker.

He headed many organizations, state and national, in his denomination and in the prohibition field.

After 42 years as a priest, and 32 years as pastor in Beloit, he died here March 31, 1915.