expansion, including the planting of Christianity, led by French Catholics.
colonial church in Canada
explored and evangelized Canada and much of what is now the midwestern
United States. French Catholic priests, such as Jean
de Brébeuf, followed a mission strategy of adapting to and living
or traveling with native peoples. The
Jesuit Order was particularly well suited for this work, because its
priests were trained to be mobile, adaptable, and willing to take any
risk. The French also built settlements and cities, such as Quebec and
Montreal. Leaders such as Bishop Laval helped
build schools, churches, and hospitals which supported a Catholic culture.
Canada came under British control in 1760, but Catholicism continued as
a major force in shaping Canadian society. Among the Protestant groups
to settle in Canada, the Church of England, Presbyterians,
Methodists, and Mennonites
became quite strong.