The Missionary Oblate Sisters of the Sacred Heart and of Mary Immaculate, who are more commonly known as The Missionary Oblates of St. Boniface, are located in Winnipeg, Manitoba. They are called to give a preference to the most disadvantaged and respond with audacity, compassion, and joy.

Their congregation was founded in 1904 by Archbishop Louis-Philippe Adélard Langevin, o.m.i., who had a vision for them of establishing a humble institute in his diocese for the greater glory of God and the salvation of souls, particularly the souls of children.

The aim of this institute is to teach the youth and cooperate discreetly in the Catholic works of the parishes and missions…and this will be lived out in a spirit of faith, simplicity, and dignity.  (Letter 1903)

As missionary educators they are called to give preference to the most disadvantaged. Their motto is “Cum Maria Matre Jesu,” “With Mary the Mother of Jesus,” and they witness to the Living Christ by their dynamism and joie de vivre.

As the Missionary Oblates of St. Boniface support the mission of JRS Canada, Sister Caroline Deters has agreed to an interview.

JRS Canada: Why are the Missionary Oblate Sisters involved in the cause of refugees, migrants, and forcibly displaced persons?

Sr. Caroline Deters: Last year was the first time we heard about JRS. We received the brochure, and a priest phoned to talk about the good work they do. Then at our next donation meeting, we shared about the brochure and said that it would be a very good mission to support with our donation because of the many refugees and migrants coming into our country and other countries who need help.

JRS Canada: How does supporting the cause of refugees relate to your charism?

Sr. Caroline Deters: The Missionary Oblate Sister’s charism statement says that “we are open to the needs of today’s world, especially the most disadvantaged.” These refugees, migrants, and displaced persons for us currently are the most disadvantaged. We feel this is an important mission to support because of all that is going on in our world today.

The Missonary Oblates of St.Boniface photographed on various occasions including celebrating their Jubilarians.

JRS Canada: Are there sisters in your community who are more involved in this issue?

Sr. Caroline Deters: We are a community of only 30 sisters left, mostly living in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The ages range from 72 to 100 years old. Therefore, we support this issue with our donation and prayers for those who can be there for them, help them in their many needs, and have a better life.

JRS Canada: What is the responsibility of a Missionary Oblate Sister towards refugees?

Sr. Caroline Deters: In our mission statement it says we “are disturbed by the needs of a suffering world which is thirsting for love, truth, and fullness of life” and “we commit ourselves in a spirit of oblation to be in solidarity with the promoters of peace, justice, and unity.” This is what you are doing: teaching many how to take their lives in their own hands, speak out for what they need, and make the right choices for their future, where they will be happy.

Pictures from the Haiti Project in 2015 and 2018. 
The sisters went to work at a new orphanage and in a school in Robillard.