Our community in Bonn started In 1952, moving into the Stimson Memorial Chapel which we shared with the Protestant community under the patronage of the United States Embassy until moving to our current location at Holy Cross in 2003.

In 1978, Father William Travers O. Carm. (a.k.a. Father Bill) answered a call from the American Catholic Community in Bonn – Bad Godesberg, Germany, where he became their new pastor. He selected the name ‘Saint Thomas More’ for his catholic community himself, under which it served many members of the international diplomatic community in Bonn. During his 17 years in Bonn, Father Bill got involved in every aspect of community life, serving at times as a medic and scorer for the high school teams, as well as a friend, confidant, and counsellor. He also created outreach programs in Russia, Uganda and the Appalachian Mountains of Kentucky. Above all else, he was to his flock a priest and shepherd: a true and faithful vessel of God’s grace.

On 5 February 1995, Father Bill celebrated his Golden Jubilee of Ordination. The ceremony was held at Stimson Memorial Chapel in Bonn, Kennedyallee 150. Among the various dignitaries were John Malley, then Prior General, and former United States Ambassador to Germany, Robert Kimmitt. Many sang Father Bill’s praises on that occasion, including Charles Redman, the incumbent United States Ambassador at the time.

When Father Bill returned to Fairfield, California, he helped out at Mount Carmel Parish. He also returned to active duty with the Solano County Sheriff’s department. A heart attack ended the life of that great man on 14 July 1997. A Vigil Service was held on 18 July, and a Mass of the Resurrection shortly thereafter. His burial was at Suisun‐Fairfield Cemetery in Fairfield, California. A Memorial Mass was also held here in Bonn on 20 July 1997. On 11 October 2007 the city council of Bonn decided to name a street close to his former parish after William Joseph Charles Travers: ‘Father-Bill-Straße’.