The Holy Trinity Doors and the Four Gospel Writers are Inviting You to Enter

There are three main entrance doors to the Basilica.  The number three represents the Holy Trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

The outside center doors are flanked by two personifications.   

The blindfolded personification represents the “Justice of God” which is meant to emphasize the four cardinal virtues of prudence, justice, fortitude and temperance.

The other personification, holding a chalice, represents the “Virtue of Religion”, emphasizing the duty to pay homage to God.  This involves practicing the three theological virtues of faith, hope and charity. 

Situated alongside the two outer doors are stone carvings representing the four gospel writers, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John:

Matthew, as a winged man, representing Jesus’ humanity.

Mark as a lion, representing Christ the King.

Luke as an ox, representing priestly sacrifice, service, and strength.

John as an eagle, which represents a “soaring to eternal life”.

For the next stop on the tour, please step into the foyer of the Basilica.

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Welcome to St. Dunstan’s Cathedral Basilica!
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  1. Welcome to St. Dunstan’s Cathedral Basilica
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  2. Steeples, Pinnacles and Arches - A Gaze Toward Heaven
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  3. The Holy Trinity Doors and the Four Gospel Writers are Inviting You to Enter
  4. Entering the Gates of the Heavenly City
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  5. What is a Cathedral and What is a Basilica?
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  6. Beginnings of the Catholic Church on Prince Edward Island and a Brief History of St. Dunstan’s Cathedral Basilica
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  7. The Cathedral is in the form of a Latin Cross
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  8. The Stellar Vaulted Ceiling: A Representation of the Heavens with a Message
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  9. Who Was St Dunstan, the Cathedral’s Patron?
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  10. A Multitude of the Heavenly Host - Over 300 Angels
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  11. St. Dunstan’s 12 Consecration Crosses and 12 Pillars
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  12. The Sanctuary
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  13. A Multitude of Angels and Saints Praising God
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  14. The Stained-Glass Rose Window
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  15. Sanctuary Murals with Eucharistic Themes
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  16. Shrine of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
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  17. The Basilica’s Most Cherished Relics: Bishop MacEachern’s Boat, Mass Kit and Snowshoes
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  18. St. Anne’s Shrine
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  19. Our Lady of Victories Marion Shrine
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  20. St. Joseph's Shrine
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  21. Statuary of St. Dunstan’s Basilica: “May God be praised in this Angels and in His Saints!”
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  22. Stained Glass Windows of the Basilica
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  23. The Cathedral Bells
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  24. Casavant Pipe Organ
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  25. Stations of the Cross Along the Side and Entrance Walls of the Nave
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  26. The Marble of the Basilica
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  27. Thank You and Donations Welcome
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