Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus welcome Hot Springs native, Father William (Bill) Elser as their new priest as Monsignor Bernard Malone transitions into a new phase of his ministry. Father Elser was born and raised in Hot Springs with his 5 brothers and 3 sisters. His mother still resides in the family home she and her late husband moved into 58 years ago.  Growing up in St. Mary’s parish in Hot Springs, Father Elser and his brothers all served as altar boys when Monsignor Malone was assigned there some 40+ years ago.

Father William Elser

Heeding the call to the priesthood, Father Elser entered Holy Trinity Seminary in Dallas after earning his BA in Philosophy at UCA. He celebrated the 24^th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood on May 31^st.

Over the years, Father Elser has served many Catholic parishes throughout Arkansas. One of his early assignments was with former Sacred Heart Pastor Father Rossi in Mountain Home, and over the years he has served in parishes from Fort Smith to Jonesboro and most recently in Benton and back home in Hot Springs.

Father Elser has been shepherd to many flocks and to the spiritual well-being of the young and old alike. He counseled college age students at the Newman Center when he was appointed to Jonesboro, and he thoroughly enjoys opportunities to teach youngsters about their religion. He has ample experience administering to the spiritual needs of the “retired generations” as well, having ministered to parishes in Bella Vista and Fairfield Bay.

Father Elser serves as State Chaplain to the Arkansas Council of the Knights of Columbus. He traveled to Rome in early June.  With the other state chaplains, he participated in services marking the end the Catholic Church’s year-long special dedication of prayer and reflection on the ministry of the priesthood – the Year for Priests.

Father Elser is looking forward to getting to know his new parishioners as well as the other clergy in the Hot Springs Village community. He has already been introduced to a few of the golf courses in the Village. In addition to golf, he enjoys bowling, playing cards and an occasional game of dominoes. These interests seem to fit well within the HSV community. Welcome, Father Bill.