William Atherton (minister)

William Atherton (1641-1697) was an English nonconformist minister ejected from his living following the Act of Uniformity 1662. Born in Bridgewater, Somerset, he matriculated at Magdalen Hall, Oxford, in 1658. After graduating, he served as a minister at various locations, including Bewdley, Worcestershire.

Following his ejection from the established church, Atherton continued to preach and minister to nonconformist congregations, facing persecution for his beliefs. He was known for his piety and dedication to his faith. He was imprisoned on more than one occasion for violating the Conventicle Act.

Atherton's theological stance aligned with moderate Calvinism. Though he wrote little, his influence lay in his pastoral work and unwavering commitment to nonconformist principles during a period of religious suppression in England.