Living and working in indigenous contexts has been a fundamental aspect of our mission since the time of our foundress, Euphrasie Barbier. Our journey began with missionary engagement with the Maori people in Napier, Aotearoa-New Zealand. Euphrasie, through her letters, shared valuable advice with the missionary sisters, emphasizing the importance of respect and understanding, particularly in relation to the Maori children under their care.
The Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions (RNDM) remain dedicated to engaging with indigenous peoples, considering it as a congregational priority. Our commitment to this priority demands continuous vigilance and reflection to minimize any negative impacts resulting from our missionary presence in indigenous communities. In our engagement with indigenous peoples, we strive to adopt healthy missiological approaches.
In essence, our approach is guided by the theological principle encapsulated in John 15:13:
“There is no greater love than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
In indigenous contexts, missionaries must willingly set aside personal desires and ambitions for the collective well-being of the community. The development of just and right relationships with indigenous individuals and communities is of utmost importance.
We recognize that friendship with the community is our highest value, and we are committed to fostering and maintaining these relationships built on mutual respect and understanding.
Engaging with indigenous communities as a missionary requires a nuanced approach grounded in respect, cultural sensitivity, and a genuine commitment to understanding and honoring the unique traditions and values of the people being served. Missionaries play a crucial role in fostering positive relationships and bridging cultural gaps, but their positive impact hinges on adopting the right attitudes and values.
Humility
Firstly, humility is paramount. Missionaries must approach indigenous communities with an open mind, recognizing the wealth of knowledge embedded in their traditions. Acknowledging the richness of indigenous cultures fosters mutual respect and paves the way for meaningful partnerships. A humble missionary is more likely to learn from the community, building trust and rapport.
Cultural Sensitivity
Cultural sensitivity is another key aspect. Missionaries need to invest time in understanding the local customs, languages, and belief systems. Respecting sacred traditions and sensitivity to cultural appropriation demonstrate a commitment to fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment. By aligning their practices with indigenous values, missionaries can build bridges rather than inadvertently perpetuating harm.
Empowerment
Furthermore, missionaries must prioritize community empowerment over imposition. Instead of imposing external beliefs, they need to focus on identifying and supporting the community’s aspirations and needs. This collaborative approach ensures that interventions are culturally relevant and sustainable, leading to long-term positive impacts.
Trust
Building relationships founded on trust is essential. Taking the time to build genuine connections with community members fosters understanding and allows for effective communication. This, in turn, facilitates the sharing of knowledge and the implementation of programs that align with the community’s goals.
In other words, missionaries in indigenous communities must embrace humility, cultural sensitivity, community empowerment, and relationship-building as core values. By adopting these attitudes, missionaries can contribute positively to the well-being of indigenous communities, fostering a spirit of collaboration and mutual respect. Ultimately, the success of missionary work lies in the ability to walk alongside indigenous communities, learning from and supporting them in their unique cultural contexts.
Sr Patricia Lourdes “Petite” Lao, RNDM is a religious missionary of the Congregation of Our Lady of the Missions. She is currently a doctoral candidate of the Toronto School of Theology (Regis College) with a research interest in Indigenous-visible minority dialogue and the truth and reconciliation process.
Thank you Petite, for this clear, straightforward and practical articulation of important values that guide us as missionary disciples. You also cite friendship with the community as our highest value Such reciprocal relationships help everyone come more to life, know deeper joy, become more conscious. Sounds like building a Synodal church to me!!
And I love the photos Rebecca found to accompany your post. Talk about reciprocal!! Photos amplifying text, amplifying photos, ….