Preface Originally a part of the Diocese of Quebec , Charlottetown became a diocese in 1829 which makes us just shy of our 175'1' anniversary. From working on these pages over the past six months 1 am much surprised by the extent of our history and by the sacrifices made by our Catholic people in bringing us to this present day. I am also fully aware that much historical data had to be excluded from this brief overview. This pictorial history of the diocese is intended for the coffee table, to be looked at again and again. It is a reflection on the people whose faith in action has shaped much of Island life through the parishes and other institutions they built and maintained. It also shows that we are a diocese formed of many cultures. May this book, through word and picture, be of special interest to all who explore it. May it connect us with those many people now long gone and help us feel part of the wider diocesan faith community. Above all, may its contents turn out to be a faith walk, a true sentierdefoi. Reverend Art O'Shea