This diocese has quite a large Indian population, there being no less
than 18,000 within its limits. About 6,000 of these are Catholics.
Seven Jesuit Fathers are here engaged in Indian missionary work while
three diocesan priests visit the missions when opportunity affords.
There are seventeen churches exclusively for the Indians, while four
schools conducted by the Sisters of Providence look to the instruction
of the Indian children. “We could have a great many more children at
school,” writes Bishop Junger. “About three weeks ago eighteen children
were brought to Yakima to go to school, but they were not received as
there is no room there, and besides the Sisters of Providence have a
great number above their contract. The same may be said in regard to
the school at Blanket and Puyallup. Then there are several tribes which
would willingly accept the teachings of the Church, but missionaries and
priests are wanting. In my last report I mentioned that the diocese of
Nesqually does not receive an allocation in proportion to other dioceses,
concerning schools, missionaries and churches. I would not reiterate this
remark, and it is against my feelings that I do it again; but I think my
conscience obliges me to do so. Neither do I begrudge the other dioceses
what they receive. In the pamphlet, ‘Mission Work among the Negroes and
Indians,’ which was sent me a short time ago, I see on page 21, under the
heading ‘Indian Mission Work,’ that Nesqually is not fairly represented
in regard to priests and pupils, and especially in regard to the latter.
There are only 150 pupils mentioned, whilst if you count them up in my
report you will find nearly 400, and this year there are about 450.”