Alexis Bachelot, French priest and missionary (d. 1837)

Born Jean-Augustin Bachelot on February 22, 1796, in France, this devout individual would later be known as Alexis Bachelot, SS.CC. His early life led him to the renowned Irish College in Paris, a significant institution for Catholic education, where he prepared for the priesthood. By 1820, he was ordained, embarking on a path that would soon take him far from his European roots to a distant Pacific archipelago.

The First Prefect Apostolic of the Sandwich Islands

Alexis Bachelot's most defining role came when he was appointed the first Prefect Apostolic of the Sandwich Islands, the historical name for what we know today as Hawaii. This prestigious position meant he was tasked with leading the very first permanent Catholic mission to the Kingdom of Hawaii. A monumental undertaking, he set sail, arriving in the islands in 1827 with the hopeful expectation of approval from King Kamehameha II.

Navigating a Hostile Kingdom

Upon his arrival in 1827, Father Bachelot was met with an unforeseen and challenging reality: King Kamehameha II had passed away, and a new government had been established. This new administration harbored strong hostility towards Catholic missionaries, largely influenced by Protestant advisors who had arrived earlier. Despite this official opposition, Bachelot demonstrated remarkable resilience. For four years, he quietly ministered to and successfully converted a small group of Hawaiians to Catholicism, establishing an initial foothold for the faith. However, his efforts could not escape the watchful eye of Kaʻahumanu, the powerful Kuhina Nui – a position akin to a queen regent – of Hawaii. In 1831, her orders led to his forceful deportation from the islands, marking a significant setback for the burgeoning Catholic mission.

Exile and a Fateful Return

Following his expulsion from Hawaii, Father Bachelot traveled to Alta California, then part of Mexico, where he found refuge and continued his priestly duties. He served diligently as an assistant minister, pastoring to the local community and engaging in teaching. Several years later, in 1837, news reached him of significant changes in Hawaii: Queen Kaʻahumanu had died, and King Kamehameha III, her successor, was reportedly more open to allowing Catholic priests back into the kingdom. Seizing this opportunity, Bachelot, ever determined, made the arduous journey back to Hawaii, intent on resuming his missionary work.

Tragically, his hopes were once again dashed. By the time of his arrival, King Kamehameha III had unfortunately reversed his stance. Father Bachelot was summarily removed from the island and confined to a ship for several months, his liberty curtailed and his mission halted. His release only came about through dramatic international intervention, as the French and British navies imposed a naval blockade on Honolulu harbor, forcing the Hawaiian authorities to relent.

The French Incident and Lasting Legacy

Though finally freed, Father Bachelot's ordeal was far from over. He managed to secure passage on a ship bound for Micronesia, hoping to continue his ministry elsewhere. However, en route, his health failed, and he passed away on December 5, 1837. He was laid to rest on a small islet near Pohnpei, a poignant end to a life dedicated to faith in the Pacific.

His harsh treatment in Hawaii did not go unnoticed. The government of France, spurred by the plight of its citizen and the perceived affront to religious freedom, dispatched a frigate to the islands. This diplomatic and military intervention, famously known as the French Incident, had profound consequences. It ultimately compelled the Hawaiian government to guarantee religious freedom, leading to the emancipation of Catholics in Hawaii and opening the door for the lasting presence of the Catholic Church in the islands.

Frequently Asked Questions About Alexis Bachelot

Who was Alexis Bachelot?
Alexis Bachelot, born Jean-Augustin Bachelot, was a French Catholic priest and a member of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary (SS.CC.). He is primarily known for his pioneering role as the first Prefect Apostolic of the Sandwich Islands (Hawaii) and for leading the initial permanent Catholic mission to the Kingdom of Hawaii.
What was his main role in Hawaii?
His main role was to establish and lead the first permanent Catholic mission in Hawaii, serving as the Prefect Apostolic. He sought to introduce and spread Catholicism among the native Hawaiian population during a period of significant religious and political transition.
Why was he deported from Hawaii?
Father Bachelot was deported in 1831 on the orders of Kaʻahumanu, the Kuhina Nui (a powerful co-ruler similar to a queen regent), due to the Hawaiian government's hostility towards Catholic missionaries. This hostility was partly influenced by Protestant advisors who had established an earlier presence.
What was the "French Incident" related to Bachelot?
The "French Incident" refers to the diplomatic and military intervention by the French government in 1839, prompted by Father Bachelot's harsh treatment and the suppression of Catholicism in Hawaii. A French frigate imposed a naval blockade on Honolulu harbor, leading to an ultimatum that forced the Hawaiian government to grant religious freedom to Catholics.
When and where did Alexis Bachelot die?
Alexis Bachelot died on December 5, 1837, en route to Micronesia, after being freed from confinement in Hawaii. He was laid to rest on a small islet near Pohnpei.