Saint Dunstan facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dunstan |
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Dunstan shoeing the Devil's hoof, as illustrated by George Cruikshank
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| Archbishop of Canterbury | |
| Born | 909 Baltonsborough, Somerset, England |
| Died | May 19, 988 Canterbury, England |
| Venerated in | Eastern Orthodox Church Roman Catholic Church Anglican Communion |
| Canonized | 1029 |
| Major shrine | Canterbury Cathedral (but also claimed by Glastonbury Abbey), both now destroyed |
| Feast | May 19 |
| Attributes | gold cup; pincers; man holding a pair of smith's tongs; with a dove hovering near him; with a troop of angels before him |
| Patronage | armourers; blacksmiths; blind people; Charlottetown, Canada; gold workers; goldsmiths; jewellers; lighthouse keepers; locksmiths; musicians; silver workers; silversmiths; swordsmiths |
Dunstan (909–May 19, 988) was a very important English saint. He served as the Archbishop of Canterbury, a top leader in the church, from 960 to 988. He was officially made a saint (this is called canonized) in 1029. Dunstan became famous for many interesting stories, especially those about his clever dealings with the Devil.
Contents
Who Was Dunstan?
Dunstan was born in the year 909 in a place called Baltonsborough in Somerset, England. His family was wealthy and connected to the royal family. This meant he had a good start in life.
Early Life and Education
As a young boy, Dunstan was sent to Glastonbury Abbey to study. This was a famous monastery and a center of learning. He learned many things there, including religious studies, art, and music. He was very talented and became skilled in metalwork, painting, and playing the harp.
Becoming a Monk
Dunstan became a monk at Glastonbury. He was known for his dedication and hard work. He also became an advisor to King Edmund I and later to King Eadred. He helped them with important decisions.
Dunstan and the Devil
One of the most famous stories about Dunstan involves the Devil. The Devil supposedly visited Dunstan while he was working in his workshop. Dunstan, being a skilled metalworker, was busy making things.
The Devil's Visit
The Devil tried to trick or tempt Dunstan. But Dunstan was very clever and not easily fooled. In one popular story, Dunstan was working at his forge (a place for heating metal). The Devil appeared as a beautiful woman to distract him.
Shoeing the Devil
Dunstan quickly recognized the Devil's disguise. He grabbed his hot tongs and pinched the Devil's nose! Another version of the story says the Devil came as a man. Dunstan then grabbed the Devil's hoof and began to shoe it like a horse. The Devil cried out in pain and flew away. These stories show Dunstan's strength and wit against evil.
Archbishop of Canterbury
In 960, Dunstan was chosen to be the Archbishop of Canterbury. This was a very high and powerful position in the English church. He worked hard to reform the monasteries and improve the church.
Church Reforms
Dunstan believed that monks and nuns should live strict, disciplined lives. He helped bring back old rules for monasteries. He also encouraged education and the copying of books. He wanted the church to be strong and well-organized.
Advisor to Kings
Dunstan also continued to be an important advisor to several English kings. He helped guide them on matters of law and governance. He played a big role in shaping England during his time.
Legacy and Sainthood
Dunstan died on May 19, 988. He was quickly seen as a saint by the people. He was officially made a saint in 1029. His feast day is celebrated on May 19.
Patron Saint
Saint Dunstan is the patron saint of many different groups. Because of his skills, he is the patron saint of blacksmiths, goldsmiths, and jewelers. He is also a patron of musicians and lighthouse keepers. His stories and his work continue to be remembered today.
Images for kids
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Dunstan playing his harp as the Devil is paying a visit
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Possibly Dunstan praying before Christ
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Remains of the choir of Glastonbury Abbey church
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King Eadwig's reign was marred by conflicts with his family and with Dunstan.
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Theological manuscript from Glastonbury Abbey (Bodleian Library):Abbot Dunstan ordered the writing of this book.
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Dunstan shoeing the Devil's hoof, as illustrated by George Cruikshank
See also
In Spanish: Dunstán para niños
