Henry Winter Syle (1846–1890) was an American clergyman who made history as the first deaf person ordained as a priest within the Episcopal Church in the United States. Born in Shanghai, China, he was deaf from his youth and studied under the educator Thomas Gallaudet. After pursuing higher education at institutions including Yale University and Trinity College, he was ordained in 1883. His ministry included founding a specific congregation for deaf individuals in 1888.
Life and ministry
Following his studies at several colleges in the United States and England, Syle entered the ministry. He was encouraged to pursue the priesthood by his teacher, Thomas Gallaudet. Throughout his life, he faced persistent health challenges. In 1888, he established a congregation specifically for the deaf community. He passed away from pneumonia in Philadelphia in 1890 and was buried in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania.
Commemoration
The Episcopal Church remembers Syle on its calendar of saints. He is commemorated on August 27, sharing this feast day with his mentor, Thomas Gallaudet.