The role and activities of the Capuchin, Jesuit and Recollet missionaries in Acadia/Nova Scotia from 1654 to 1755

Abstract

This thesis examines the activity of the Capuchin, Jesuit and Recollet missionaries from 1654 until 1755. More specifically it illustrates how the apostolate of these three orders developed in Acadia/Nova Scotia. It tries to give as many details as possible on the individual missionaries who came to Acadia/Nova Scotia as well as on the places where they operated. Particular attention is given to the activity of the missionaries during one of the more complex and troubled periods within the history of this territory. Furthermore, the thesis highlights the competition which existed between the religious orders, and even between different branches of the same order. This study traces missionary activity during a period of Anglo-French conflicts. It assesses the degree to which missions were affected by these tensions, and also the extent to which this varied by time and place.