180 Years of Mission: Sr. Louise Charbonneau Receives the De Mazenod Medal

On June 11, 2025, Sister Louise Charbonneau, received the Eugene de Mazenod Medal at Saint Paul University in Ottawa. The award recognized her years of service in Canon Law and marked 180 years of shared ministry between the Sisters of Charity of Ottawa and the Oblates of Mary Immaculate.

A Friendship That Goes Back Generations

Sr. Louise placed her ministry within a story that began in 1844, when Fr. Adrien TELMON, OMI, invited the Grey Nuns of Montreal to begin a mission in Bytown. Sr. Élisabeth Bruyère answered that call and founded what would become the Sisters of Charity of Ottawa. From that moment, the Sisters and the Oblates have walked together in service to the poor, the sick, and the forgotten—through schools, hospitals, northern missions, and in the ongoing Cause for Sr. Bruyère’s canonization.

This tradition of collaboration has been marked by mutual support and shared vision. Many Oblates served as chaplains and spiritual companions to the Sisters across Canada. Sr. Louise named several by name and recalled the important role Fr. Frank MORRISEY, OMI, played in her own life as a mentor and colleague in canon law ministry.

A Ministry Rooted in Compassion

Sr. Louise’s call to canon law came unexpectedly, after a long career as a psychiatric nurse. She credits her superior at the time, Sr. Rachelle Watier, for inviting her to consider this new path, and she accepted it as a response to God’s call. For more than a decade, she served quietly and faithfully at the Centre for Canonical Services, offering respectful listening, clear advice, and a deep sense of justice rooted in compassion.

In her reflection, she shared that she often turned to Mother Bruyère for guidance, asking, “What would she do in my place?” That question shaped the way she welcomed each person, whether by phone, email, or in person, and led her to collaborate with others to find the best response. She hopes her work reflects the spirit and wisdom of Mother Bruyère, who led with heart and courage.

As she prepares to leave the Centre, Sr. Louise Charbonneau expresses deep gratitude for those who supported her along the way. “If I receive this medal,” she said, “it’s because so many of you stood beside me.” She closed by giving thanks for the long-standing friendship between the Oblates and the Sisters and prayed that their mission would continue to grow, always rooted in love for the poor and trust in God’s will.

You can find Sr. Louise’s speech here

Published on the OMI World website.