I read an Article " we are as well as we are" by James Ronda which is an Indian critique of seventeenth century Christian missions. I have few questions on this

How have these missions been seen as and how have they changed over the years ?

I know that the Hurons did not believe what the Christian missionaries had to say. They did not believe their concept of heaven and hell and found the missionaries as evil people who were a threat to their religion

Opinions still vary.

I don't understand how views about them have changed over the years, what exactly were their purpose ?

The purpose of the missions was to convert the natives to Christianity.

Some people see the missions as a "civilizing" influence on the native peoples. They are proud of the work the missionaries did.

Others are appalled that Christians tried to change the religion and customs of the natives. Why would anyone believe that Christianity is superior to other religions?

Thank you very much Ms. Sue :)

You're welcome.

To understand how these missions have been seen and how they have changed over the years, there are a few steps you can take:

1. Research the historical context: Start by learning about the historical background of seventeenth century Christian missions in India. Look at the motivations behind these missions, the methods used by the missionaries, and the reactions of the indigenous people.

2. Study multiple perspectives: Explore different viewpoints to get a well-rounded understanding. Look for scholarly articles, books, and reputable sources that discuss the impact of these missions. This will help you analyze the changes in perception over time.

3. Consider indigenous perspectives: Understand the viewpoint of the indigenous people themselves. Read primary sources, such as testimonies or accounts from the Hurons, to understand their perspectives on the missionaries and their beliefs.

4. Examine evolving understandings: Look for historical accounts and studies that analyze changing perceptions of these missions over time. Consider factors such as cultural shifts, evolving attitudes toward colonialism, and changing historical interpretations.

5. Evaluate secondary sources: Read articles, books, or essays written by historians or scholars that specifically address the topic. Look for sources that provide a nuanced analysis, weighing the positive and negative impacts of the missions while also considering the broader context.

By following these steps, you will be able to gain a comprehensive understanding of how these missions have been seen and how they have changed over time. Remember to approach the topic with an open mind and critically evaluate the sources you encounter.