This is a significant year (2016) in the history of St. Dunstan’s Parish, for it marks the 200th anniversary of a parish church at the existing site of the Basilica.
“In a jurisdiction like Prince Edward Island, two hundred years is an exceptional length of time,” commented Bishop Richard Grecco, “It is an historical milestone that deserves to be honored and celebrated”.
The current church (St. Dunstan’s Basilica) is the fourth church to be constructed at this location. All four churches were named St. Dunstan’s. It was the Bishop of Quebec who chose this patron saint for the church of Charlottetown. The first St. Dunstan’s Church was completed and available for worship in the year 1816.
Stained Glass rendition of St. Dunstan
Patron Saint of the Diocese of Charlottetown
“Our Diocesan patron saint, St. Dunstan, was a very accomplished individual who was instrumental in fostering renewal in monastic life and eventually throughout the Church in England”, offered Bishop Grecco.
“Given his abilities and ecclesiastical zeal, he served as Bishop of London and in the year 959, was appointed Archbishop of Canterbury, the most senior clerical position in country.”
St. Dunstan’s feast day is celebrated each year on May 19th.
In recognition of this 200th anniversary, there will be a special Mass this year at 7:00 pm at the Basilica. A reception will follow in the basement of the church.
All are welcome to attend.
The history of the parish of St. Dunstan’s is a fascinating story, further details of which can be found here: St.-Dunstans-200th-Anniversary.pdf
Similarly, additional information regarding our diocesan patron saint (St. Dunstan) is provided here: Saint-Dunstan-history-of-the-man.pdf
Requests for information regarding the celebration on the feast day, Thursday, May 19, 2016 can be directed to the Diocesan Catholic Centre, 902-368-8005.
Statue of St. Dunstan located at the Pastoral Centre