Bishop Joseph wrote the following letter to Bishop James MacDonald, the 11th Bishop of our Diocese who served here from 1982 – 1991.
Dear Archbishop James,
On the joyful occasion of the 47th anniversary of your episcopal ordination, and in anticipation of your 100th birthday on April 28th, I write on behalf of the clergy, religious, and faithful of the Diocese of Charlottetown to extend to you heartfelt congratulations and warmest wishes.
Born in Whycocomagh, Cape Breton, and baptized at St. Mary of the Angels Church in Glendale, your long life of devotion and service has been a gift to the Church in Canada. From your theological studies at Holy Cross Seminary in St. Genevieve, to your priestly ordination in Woodstock as a member of the Congregation of Holy Cross, your path has been marked by steadfast commitment and pastoral wisdom.
Your episcopal ministry—first as Auxiliary Bishop of Hamilton, then as Bishop of Charlottetown, and later as Archbishop of St. John’s—has deeply shaped the Church in this country. Here on Prince Edward Island, your nine years of episcopal leadership left a lasting legacy: from guiding the implementation of the new Code of Canon Law, to celebrating the centenary of the Acadian flag at Miscouche, to the historic papal visit of 1984 in Canada, and the relocation of Diocesan offices to Dun Glaston. Your pastoral leadership was visionary and your love for the people was evident.
As someone who also served many years in the Diocese of London, I am especially grateful for your faith-filled priestly witness. It is remarkable to think that well into your 90s you were still ministering—joyfully celebrating confirmations and continuing to offer your presence at diocesan gatherings. I was blessed to meet you on several occasions, including the bishop’s dinner in Windsor, and have always been struck by your gentle spirit, your gracious manner, and your deep love for the Church.
Now, as you prepare to mark the wonderful milestone of your 100th birthday, may you feel the gratitude and affection of so many whom you have served. Though decades have passed, your memory remains vivid in the lives of those you touched, and your legacy endures in the communities you shepherded.
May this Easter season fill you with renewed peace and joy. With heartfelt thanks for your faithful witness and episcopal example, I wish you ad multos annos!
May God continue to bless you with good health and favour.
Fraternally in Christ
Most Rev. Joseph Dabrowski, CSMA
Bishop of Charlottetown