The SNJM in Lesotho: A Mission Continuing Since 1931
On August 29, 1931, six Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) left Trois-Rivières aboard the Calumet. Their destination was Basutoland, a small mountainous territory surrounded by South Africa that would become known as Lesotho upon gaining independence in 1966.
This long journey marked the beginning of the SNJM’s first mission in Africa and a presence that continues today, nearly a century later.
Six Pioneering Sisters Set Out
This new foundation came in response to repeated requests from the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, who were already serving in Basutoland. After extensive preparations, six SNJM sisters set out on the journey: Sr. M.-André-Avellin (Maximilienne Pigeon), Sr. Marie-Léonius (Antoinette Sauvé), Sr. Maurice-Marie (Azilda Fortier), Sr. Marie-Malvina (Laura Gaudreault), Sr. Marie-Camille (Laurence Desroches), and Sr. Marie-Léa (Marie-Blanche Lemieux). They travelled with five Grey Nuns.
Discover the story behind this foundation and learn more about the journey of these pioneering women through our historical resources.
A Mission That Expands and Evolves
Over the decades, the SNJM’s commitment evolved to meet the needs of local communities. Their educational mission expanded to include initiatives in health care, training, and community development. The sisters helped establish dispensaries, maternity clinics, and infirmaries, while also contributing to the training of medical personnel.
Working with various partners, they also supported projects to improve access to safe drinking water and sanitation, drill wells, and develop income-generating activities, particularly in agriculture and sewing.
A Vibrant SNJM Presence in Lesotho Today
The work begun by the founding sisters also helped foster local religious vocations. Today, sisters from Lesotho continue the mission, enriching it with their own culture, traditions, and experience.
In collaboration with other congregations and organizations, they are involved in efforts promoting peace and justice, combating human trafficking, and seeking sustainable solutions to climate change, whose effects on water resources and agriculture are placing increasing pressure on communities.
This ongoing presence reflects a mission that has evolved over time: a commitment rooted in education, solidarity, and human dignity, as well as in meaningful encounters and the sharing of cultures.