Sr Gisela Schreyer presents the Scientific Approach of Missionary Sisters: A Forgotten Treasure
When Mission Met Scientific Observation
Cardinal Charles Lavigerie strongly encouraged his missionaries — Fathers, Brothers, and Sisters — to engage deeply with the countries they were sent to: learning the language, understanding the culture, and documenting anything of interest, including scientific observations. Although the Sisters, unlike the Fathers, did not receive specialized training, some took a great interest in these fields and began to document what they learned from local communities.
A Precious Discovery in the Archives
Among these documents are preserved collections of medicinal plants and natural dyes, used notably in the crafting of traditional carpets. These rare materials were rediscovered by historian Mme Catherine Marin, who authored a book on Mother Marie Salomé, during one of her visits to Rome.
She invited me to present these treasures during a Missionary Documentation Day in Paris (on May 24), which focused on the contributions of missionaries to natural sciences.
A Day of Rich Scientific and Cultural Exchange
Eight speakers — including researchers, professors, students, and archivists — shared their work on a wide range of regions such as China, Vietnam, the Samoa Islands, Africa, and Europe, covering several centuries of missionary history. I was proud to be the only speaker presenting a women perspective on science in mission.
The Unique Perspective of Women Missionaries
In my presentation, I highlighted how our Sisters in the Sahara humbly and curiously learned the art of wool-working from local women. This ancestral knowledge is beautifully described in A Rereading of Our Family History (p. 95 and following).
I also presented the medicinal plant collection compiled by Sister Marie-Claver (+1985), in the 1930s — an impressive achievement for someone with no formal scientific training.
Science Through a Feminine Lens: Listening, Exchange, and Dignity
At the time, women had very limited or no opportunities to engage in scientific research. And yet, our Sisters succeeded – often by forming deep, trusting relationships with local women and exchanging knowledge respectfully.
Father Gilles Berceville, O.P., the Director of the Institute, emphasized in his closing summary the importance of listening, dialogue, and affirming human dignity, which was so evident in the Sisters’ approach as the local Saharan woman told them : “I will show you how to weave”, capturing the spirit of transmission and shared wisdom.
“These are good ingredients for building a less violent world,” he concluded.
Acknowledgments and Looking Ahead
This experience reminded me how female missionaries contributed not just spiritually, but also scientifically – often unrecognized, but never insignificant.
I am deeply grateful to Sr. Nicole Robion for her helpful suggestions after hearing my presentation, and to Srs. Nicole and Danuta, who were in Paris at the same time and participated fully in the event, enriching the day with their presence and missionary spirit.
