Loin des yeux, près du cœur ! Autorité, distance et pragmatisme chez les Soeurs Missionnaires de Notre-Dame d’Afrique (1869-1894).

This paper focuses on the early stages of the Missionary Sisters of our Lady of Africa (White Sisters), from the point of view of women. From a feminist and gender studies perspective, this study illustrates how socio-ecclesial roles assigned to women give them (or not) a peculiar character, in the context of the foundation of a missionary institute. The relations of these women with their founder, as well as with the White Fathers, who also bear the weight of socio-ecclesial roles imposed on them as men, are analysed. Concepts of authority and obedience are considered as well as the effects of the shock from the missionary experience itself. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]