Dunstan, from a family with royal connections, was educated by Irish monks at Glastonbury. In 923, when his Uncle Athelm became archbishop of Canterbury, Dunstan joined his household. The following year Athelm commended him to the new king, Athelstan, and he served at court during a period marked by strong European contact. But his impressive scholarship and influence created jealousy. Still a young nobleman, he took monks vows and returned to Glastonbury

In 939 Edmund became king of Wessex, and Dunstan returned to court as his chaplain. Soon, the king, convinced Dunstan’s prayers had saved him from death, appointed him abbot of Glastonbury. After the Danish invasions, religious life in England was at a low ebb. Dunstan realised the potential of monasteries in the pastoral service of the church, and emphasised the importance of education, making Glastonbury a centre of learning.

King Edgar appointed him Bishop of Worcester, then Bishop of London and in 960, Archbishop of Canterbury, making him in effect, also Prime Minister. He and King Edgar, planned and carried out a thorough renewal of the church and revival of the monasteries. Secular reforms included the creation of a navy to protect England from Viking attacks, and the establishment of law and order. He also devised an imperial-style coronation ceremony for Edgar in 973 (which became the basis for coronation ceremonies up to the present day).

Dunstan saw an English code was needed for English monks. The Regularis Concordia (970) was drawn up by Bishop Aethelwold, who took the leading role in the revival of the monasteries. The document had significance in the areas of liturgy, pastoral care and education, plus it placed monks and monasteries under royal protection. After Edgar's death and the coronation of a new king, Dunstan retired to Canterbury and devoted himself to long hours of prayer and teaching at the cathedral.

Dunstan is noted for his great learning, and his powerful influence in the affairs of church and state at a significant time in English history. He was widely respected because of his transparent integrity, sincerity and courage, possessing gifts of leadership and organisation. He never hesitated to rebuke even kings when necessary. He improved the education and discipline of the secular clergy, encouraged the use of Anglo-Saxon (the local language of the day) in teaching and for the translations of the Gospels. A man of ability and action, who also spent long hours in prayer. A practical administrator and a gifted artist. The extent of popular affection for him was indicated by a spontaneous acclamation of his saintliness upon his death.

BORN: 909 AD, Baltonsborough, England

DIED: 19 May 988 AD, Canterbury, England