Some of Sisters’ awards on display in Heritage Museum

Sisters of Providence are passionate about their ministry commitments, dedicating themselves to doing the best they can to be successful, often without accolades for their achievements.

However, once in a while, they are asked to step forward and be recognized for their contributions. Some of those tangible pieces of recognition are now on display in the Heritage Museum in Providence Center at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

Sisters of Providence are committed to devoting themselves to works of love, mercy and justice in service among God’s people without the notion of recognition. Nevertheless, sisters have been honored by the Catholic Church, colleges and universities, social agencies, the military, cities, hospitals, parishes and parish schools, and community organizations.

For instance, visitors to the Heritage Museum will learn:

• In 1991, Sister Joseph Louise English (RIP) received the Key to the City of Washington, Ind.
• In 2001, Sister Claudia Lewis (RIP) was crowned Camp Bluebird’s Homecoming Queen.
• In 1996, Sister Joan McCarthy (RIP) was honored by Yen Ling Wu, director of the Education Bureau of Tainan County Government, Taiwan, for her dedication to special education
• In 1997, Sister Merry Marcotte (RIP) received the Floyd County Prosecuting Attorney Award as Outstanding Advocate for Human Rights.

Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, foundress of the Sisters of Providence, also received a distinguished honor in 1839, being recognized by the Academy of Angers for her outstanding teaching skills.

The exhibit is open to the public. Heritage Museum is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.