RIGHT REV. MONSIGNOR JAMES A. MURPHY D.D.

One of the most loved and widely known priests of Prince Edward Island was Monsignor James A. Murphy D.D., former Rector of St. Dunstan's University and Vicar General of the Diocese of Charlottetown.

Father Murphy was born in Hope River, July 18, 1886, a son of Alexis Murphy and Mary Ann McGuigan. He received his early education in St. Ann's and New Glasgow schools. He attended Prince of Wales College, and taught school

MSgr- Murphy in Alberton, Emyvale and St. Ann's from 1904-1907. He then returned to his studies at St. Dunstan's University and received his Bachelor of Arts in 1910. He was appointed to the staff of Prince of Wales College, and taught there until 1916, when he entered St. Augustine's Seminary, Toronto to study for the priesthood.

Father Murphy was ordained on December 21, 1919, by most Rev. Henry J. O'Leary. He was immediately appointed to the teaching staff at St. Dunstan's. In May, 1926, he was given the onerous assignment of Rector, and remained in that prestigious post until 1943. His term as Rector witnessed St. Dunstan's become a Degree Granting Institution, the introduction of a famous Adult Education Program, and the extension of admission to female students. He presided over St. Dunstan's during its greatest period of expansion since its foundation in 1855.

Father Murphy was created a Domestic Prelate in 1940, and elevat— ed to the rank of Monsignor, a recognition of his visionary leadership at St. Dunstan's. At his request, he was relieved from the rectorship and appointed Pastor of St. Malachy‘s Parish, Kinkora, in 1943. In 1946, he was transferred to St. Mary's Parish, Souris. Msgr. Murphy was appoint- ed Vicar General of the Diocese on August 18, 1958. One of his most treasured honors was his reception of the Honourary Degree of Doctor of Divinity from Laval University. After eighteen years of dedicated service in Souris, Msgr. Murphy's deteriorating health necessitated his retirement in April, 1964. He died on October 9, 1964. He had served his church and province with urbanity and dignity and dedication for some 45 years.

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