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A Wonderful Transformation

In a papal bull dated November 30, 1912, Pope Pius X decreed that the Archdiocese of Edmonton and the Diocese of Calgary would be created from the vast Diocese of St. Albert, which had been established back in 1871. In his circular to the people in February 1913, the newly named Archbishop Émile Joseph Legal, OMI, wrote that the Pope had recognized the surging population in Alberta and the resulting need for new missions and new parishes:

“He knew that these vast countries where, only a few years back, scattered Indian encampments and small and insignificant villages only were to be found were undergoing, at the present time, a wonderful transformation.”

Over the next century, Archbishop Legal’s words would prove to be prophetic. This online exhibit is but a snapshot of the “wonderful transformation” that continues to this day.

Read the complete Circular Letter in English or French

 

St. Albert Roots

Journey back to the beginning and learn about the Diocese of St. Albert.
Read more >
 

Legal's Legacy
Learn more about the first Archbishop of Edmonton, Archbishop Émile Joseph Legal. 
Read more >
     

Building Community
Many groups have helped build a vibrant Catholic community in the Archdiocese of Edmonton.                     Read more >
 

Together in Faith
From a small parish to the seat of the Archbishop. Learn the history of St. Joseph's Basilica.
Read more >
     

Spreading the Word
From snowshoes to email the Archdiocese has been spreading the gospel for over 100 years. Read more >
 

The Transformation Continues
From one mission to 126 parishes. Explore the many changes to parish life. Read more >
     

Answering the Call

Learn about St. Joseph Seminary and Newman Theological College.
Read more >
 

Journeys in Faith
Missionaries have travelled to the farthest reaches of the Archdiocese and beyond.Read more >
     

A Papal Pilgrim
Remember the 1984 visit of Blessed Pope John Paul II to Edmonton.
Read more >
 

The Mission Continues
Through the Grace of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the “wonderful transformation” of the Archdiocese carries on. Read more >
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Quick Links

Prayer for Vocations

Heavenly Father, bless your Church in the Archdiocese of Edmonton with an abundance of holy and zealous priests, deacons, religious, and seminarians.

Give those You have called to the married state and those You have chosen to live as single persons in the world, the special graces that their lives require.

Form us all in the likeness of Your Son so that in Him, with Him, and through Him we may love You more deeply and serve You more faithfully, always and everywhere.

With the virgin mother Mary we ask this through Christ your Son.

Amen.