The Jesuits and their missions provided a
bridge between the French and the Native Americans in Illinios.
Often the Jesuit missionaries were the first to make contact
with a tribe, learn their language, and serve as translators
between the French traders and the tribe. As missionaries,
Jesuits were expected to adapt to local conditions. This,
coupled with their strength of character and intelligence, won
them respect and acceptance among many Native American tribes.
For example, Father Meurin was beloved by the Kaskaskia. When
they learned of his forced leave from the Illinois country,
several Kaskaskia came forward and offered to make an official
request to the govering body in New Orleans for Father Meurin
to stay.
For many Illinois tribes the Jesuits were
important only as a connection to fur traders and the European
goods upon which the Indians had come to rely. These tribes did
not necessarily accept the Jesuit teachings. They had their own
belief system and religious leaders. Some tribes, such as the
Peoria, rejected Christianity and did not welcome the Jesuits
into their villages.
© Illinois State Museum 31-Dec-96