Gavin Dunbar (archbishop of Glasgow) facts for kids

Gavin Dunbar (born around 1490, died 1547) was an important church leader in Scotland during the 1500s. He became the Archbishop of Glasgow, which is a very high position in the Roman Catholic Church. Gavin was the third son of John Dunbar of Mochrum and Janet Stewart.

Early Life and Career

Gavin Dunbar had an uncle, also named Gavin Dunbar, who was a church official. In 1518, his uncle stepped down from a role called the Dean of Moray. He made sure his nephew, young Gavin, got this important job.

Around this time, Gavin Dunbar also became a teacher to the young King James V. This was a very trusted and influential position. In the same year, he was suggested to the Pope for another church role, the Prior of Whithorn. This appointment was confirmed a couple of years later, in 1520. Gavin held both the Dean of Moray and Prior of Whithorn roles at the same time.

Becoming Archbishop of Glasgow

On July 8, 1524, Gavin Dunbar was chosen to become the Archbishop of Glasgow. This meant he was in charge of the church in a large area around Glasgow. The Pope also gave him special permission. This meant he did not have to follow the rules of the Archbishop of St Andrews, who was usually the most senior church leader in Scotland.

Even with this special permission, Gavin Dunbar often had disagreements with the Archbishop of St Andrews. One famous conflict happened in 1543. During this time, Gavin Dunbar also became the Chancellor of Scotland on July 8, 1528. This was a very powerful government job, like being a chief minister to the king. He held this important position until 1543.

The Famous "Cursing"

Gavin Dunbar is also known for a very strong public warning he issued. It was called the "Monition of Cursing." This warning was aimed at the Border Reivers. These were groups of people living near the border between Scotland and England. They were known for raiding and stealing from each other.

The "Monition of Cursing" was a powerful statement. Priests in all the border towns had to read it aloud to their churchgoers. It didn't just curse the Reivers themselves. It also cursed their horses, their clothes, their crops, and anyone who helped them. This strong warning was issued in 1525. It was part of an effort to bring peace between England and Scotland.

Death and Lasting Impact

Gavin Dunbar passed away on April 30, 1547. He was buried in the main church in Glasgow, Glasgow Cathedral.

He left a large sum of money, £800, to help repair Glasgow Cathedral. After a big change in the church called the Scottish Reformation, King James VI used this money. In 1581, he gave the income from some church lands to the city of Glasgow. This money was used to help keep the cathedral in good condition.