Teaching

Teaching is at the heart of the Foundress' charism. Called to Rimouski by His Grace Jean Langevin, Elisabeth Turgeon assumed the direction of a model school in the city. However her main preoccupation was to train good teachers for little parish schools.

In the exercise of their duties, the teaching sisters and all those who deal with children should strive, above all else, to form the heart of their students to virtue and to teach them to know, love and serve God. The education they give should always be simple and modest, though as complete as possible for the class they are entrusted to instruct. (Elisabeth Turgeon, specific Rules for the conduct of sisters in the missions, No. 21)

Over the years, the mission of teaching and Christian education has taken on different orientations. Elementary and Secondary Parochial Schools, a School of Domestic Science and Teachers' Training Schools followed the humble classes begun by the "Soeurs des Petites-Écoles" (Sisters of the Little Schools). The extracurricular activities that the sisters devoted themselves to with their groups of students complement the educational formation. Thus leadership in clubs, "Youth of the World" and "Service Mond'Ami," assured the missionary education of students.

A Group called "Les Amies et amis d'Élisabeth" (Friends of Elisabeth) aims at developing youth to the meaning of Christian commitment. As Elisabeth Turgeon's "friends" they learn to discover the tenderness of Jesus and make it known in their milieu. The clubs of "Jeunes Naturalists" (Young Nature Lovers) and their summer camps, cultivate and develop awe and respect for the environment. Other activities, both artistic and athletic, help young people develop their talents. In all situations, the educational presence of the sisters among young children and youth is filled with the tender and caring love of Jesus and Mary.

In the Congregation, from its foundation to the present, teaching music has always had a privileged place. At the parents' request, the sisters give the basic elements in music to students. These budding artists develop their concentration, sensitivity, love for beauty and a spirit of discipline through diligent work. Some students discover a talent that will mark their lives and others are motivated to further their studies in advanced schools of music.

For the teaching of violin, the Program for the Vivaldi Movement is followed. For organ and piano, the Professors follow the Programs of the University of Laval Preparatory School of Music and the extension Program with the Convervatory of Music of Quebec. Many organists in Quebec have improved their knowledge of music in our Congregation and contribute to the beauty of the parish liturgies.

Many retired teachers now spend their time tutoring students who need additional help. French and mathematics are the subjects most in demand and are offered to students both at the elementary and secondary levels, to students in Junior College and even University students. A pedagogical approach is adapted to each student to aid them achieve success in their studies.

Courses in English and Spanish are offered to a number of adults wanting to enrich or perfect their knowledge of a second or third language.

Courses in arts and crafts, drawing and painting, home economics and even graphology answer the particular interests of both the young and the less young.