Cultivating Faith: The Three Sisters of Springhurst and the Future of the Oblate Mission in Ottawa
For the Algonquin people, the Three Sisters – corn, beans, and squash – are more than mere crops; they are the lifeblood of both physical sustenance and spiritual vitality.
These sacred plants, believed to have miraculously sprung from the body of Sky Woman’s daughter, were a divine gift to the Algonquin people, symbolizing the birth of agriculture among indigenous nations.
The Early Mission and Its Challenges
Our journey as Oblates in the Ottawa Valley is one defined by faith, marked by challenges, and sustained through unwavering perseverance. From our early beginnings in what was once New France to our ongoing work today, we have profoundly shaped the region’s educational institutions, missions, and spiritual life. Though our numbers have diminished, our dedication to our mission remains as strong as ever—a testament to our enduring commitment. When we first arrived in New France, we answered the call of the Bishop of Montreal with a deep sense of purpose, eager to establish schools, start missions, and contribute to the life of the region. Over time, we became integral to the community’s growth. However, our story is also marked by difficult chapters. We recognize our role in some of the darker moments of Canada’s history, a reality that weighs heavily on our hearts as we reflect on our past.
Keeping the Legacy Alive in Ottawa
Today, at Saint Paul University in Ottawa, we continue to carry on the work initiated by the founders of Bytown College. Whether as professors or students, we strive to keep the Oblate values and traditions alive, even as the world around us changes. Even as we navigate the challenges before us, we hold steadfast in the belief that our work is vital, cherishing the legacy we carry.
Quiet Service in Retirement
Beyond the walls of the university, many Oblates spend their days quietly in retirement houses. In places like Springhurst, we share our lives with fellow Oblates, students, and active missionaries, creating a community where our shared experiences and missions intertwine. Here, we grow the Three Sisters—corn, beans, and squash—crops sacred to the Algonquin people on whose land we live. These sacred crops symbolize far more than sustenance; they embody the profound connection between physical nourishment and spiritual growth, a connection that lies at the heart of our mission.
Springhurst garden
In this humble religious family, we listen closely, searching for the Spirit’s guidance as we continue our work in North America. Grounded in our history, we remain unwavering in our dedication, continually seeking new ways to serve, grow, and listen to the Spirit’s call. Here, as we cultivate the Three Sisters, we quietly nurture our mission, ever attuned to the Spirit’s guidance in our North American journey.
By Ali Nnaemeka, OMI
Published on the OMI World website
