May 19
Saint Dunstan was an English abbot (head of a monastery) and bishop. He eventually became the Archbishop of Canterbury. He was instrumental in restoring monastic life to England and reforming the English church. He also had talent in “making a picture and forming letters” according to his eleventh-century biographer, Osbern. Monastic work at that time included the copying of books, such as famous classics and Bibles. Sometimes illustrations were included. This was a skill of Dunstan’s that must have come in handy during his life as a monk.
Before he entered monastic life, Dunstan served in the household of the local bishop. The bishop hoped that Dunstan would become a monk, but Dunstan was unsure. At the same time, swollen tumors appeared all over his body. In any case, Dunstan took it as a sign that he should become a monk. He became Abbot of the Abbey of Glastonbury and lived the life of a hermit.
Dunstan became famous as an artist, a musician (he played the harp), and a metalworker. Eventually he was asked to become an advisor to the king and was valued for his good sense and negotiation skills. The king pledged his support to Dunstan as well, offering to help him repair and restore the monasteries. Dunstan began with the Abbey of Glastonbury. Eventually, he was appointed Archbishop of Canterbury, and he continued to reform the English church. Dunstan officiated at the coronation of King Edgar and actually wrote the Service of Coronation, which remains today as the basis for the coronation of every king and queen of England. He continued to work for the betterment of his people by restoring churches, establishing schools, and settling suits in favor of widows and orphans. He also practiced his crafts, making bells and organs and correcting books. He taught the boys in the cathedral school and encouraged and protected visiting scholars. A vision of angels revealed to him that he would die in three days. After preaching on the Feast of the Ascension, he chose a spot for his tomb, and then went to his bed. He died on May 19, 988. He was formally canonized as a saint in 1029. Saint Dunstan was known as the favorite saint of the English people. During his entire life, he certainly showed his love and care for them!
(Image © jorisvo, via Shutterstock)