This special episode of The Confederation Report, part of the “Early Narratives” sub-series, is made possible by the generous supporters of the Cántaro Institute.
The early decades of the seventeenth century saw the dawning of a new era in Europe’s encounter with the Americas. Colonies were being planted, fur-trading companies established, and kings were eager to stake claims on vast lands across the ocean. For France, the prize of Canada — or New France, as it was called — beckoned with both material wealth and spiritual opportunity. The Jesuits, that powerful missionary arm of the Catholic Church, sent forth men of steely resolve to carry the Christian message into these new frontiers. Among them was Jean de Brébeuf, a Norman priest whose zeal and courage made him one of the most striking figures in early Canadian history.
Opening Words (00:00-00:22)
Jean de Brébeuf (00:22-12:49)
Jean de Brébeuf was born in 1593 in Condé-sur-Vire, a small town in Normandy. France at the time was emerging from the religious wars of the sixteenth century. The Catholic Reformation had taken deep root, and new religious orders such as the Society of Jesus — the Jesuits — embodied a fierce zeal for spreading Catholic teaching both in Europe and abroad, seeking to outcompete what God was doing amongst the protestants. Brébeuf entered this order in his twenties, attracted by its discipline and its devotion to mission. Though part of an order that represented and embodied a distorted Christianity, God would use Him for His glory, demonstrating that God can accomplish His purposes even with a slit of light shining through into the dark.
Closing Words (12:49-13:40)
The Confederation Report, hosted by Steven Martins of the Cántaro Institute, is expanding its uniquely Christian analysis of Canadian news and culture with new historical vignettes and a broadened scope—urging listeners to look to the past with biblical clarity and support the mission at www.cantaroinstitute.org/give
Event Reminder
Join us for the Niagara Conference, All Hail the King: Christ & Government on November 14–15, 2025, in Welland, Ontario, with Rev. Doug Wilson, Dr. Scott Masson, Dr. Michael Wagner, and myself. Register now at cantaroinstitute.org/niagara2025 for early bird rates!
Follow the Cántaro Institute
X | Instagram | Facebook | Youtube
For more information, go to cantaroinstitute.org
For books on worldview, philosophy and theology, go to cantaroinstitute.store
