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Sisters of Providence celebrate Senior Jubilees
Many Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana, recently celebrated their Senior Jubilee. A total of nine Sisters of Providence celebrated 60 years, while seven celebrated 70 years. In addition, two celebrated 75 years. They were treated to a Senior Jubilee celebration on Friday, Dec. 8, in Providence Hall, followed by a special Mass.
60-year Jubilarians
Sister Susanne Gallagher is a native of Chicago. Currently, she ministers as the Assistant Director for the Archdiocesan Special Religious Development Agency in Chicago.
Sister Susanne, formerly Sister James, entered the Congregation on July 22, 1957, from St. Mary’s, Woodstock, Ill. She professed final vows on Aug. 15, 1965.
She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She also earned a master’s degree in religious education from Loyola University, Chicago, and another in special education from Northern Illinois University.
Her ministries include:
- Terre Haute, Ind.: Teacher, St. Patrick (1960-61),
- Portsmouth, N.H.: Teacher, Lady Isle (1962-63),
- Terre Haute, Ind.: Teacher, St. Margaret Mary (1963-65),
- Chicago: Teacher, St. David (1965-67), and
- Chicago: Special Religious Development Agency staff (1967-93).
Sister Janet Gilligan is a native of Chicago. Currently, she ministers as an archives assistant and grant writer at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.
Sister Janet, formerly Sister Janet Marie, entered the Congregation on Jan. 7, 1957, from St. Leo, Chicago. She professed final vows on Aug. 15, 1964.
She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She also earned a master’s degree and doctorate in English from Northern Illinois University.
Her ministries include:
- Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Andrew (1961-62),
- Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Simon (1962-67),
- Joliet, Ill.: Teacher, St. Mary Carmelite (1967-70),
- Chicago: Teacher, St. Leo (1970-71),
- Oklahoma City, Okla.: Field Consultant Economy Company, Corpus Christi (1971-76),
- Oklahoma City, Okla.: Religious Education Program, Corpus Christi (1976-77),
- Oklahoma City, Okla.: Editor, Economy Publication Company (1977-78),
- DeKalb, Ill.: Teacher, Northern Illinois University (1978-80),
- DeKalb, Ill.: Editor at Economy Publication Company (1980-81),
- Nantes, France: Teacher, University of Nantes (1981-82),
- New York City: Managing Editor, Holt, Rinehart, Winston Publications (1982-84),
- New York City: Freelance Editor (1984-85),
- DeKalb, Ill.: Teacher, Northern Illinois University (1985-86),
- Clinton, N.Y.: Assistant Professor, Hamilton College (1986-88),
- Wayne, Neb.: Associate Professor of English, Wayne State College (1988-91),
- Wayne, Neb.: Humanities Division Head, Wayne State College (1991-93),
- Wayne, Neb.: Humanities Associate Professor, Wayne State College (1993-94),
- Wayne, Neb.: Professor of English, Wayne State College (1994-2009),
- Wayne, Neb.: Freelance editor, write (2010-14), and
- Wayne, Neb.: Freelance editor, grant writer, volunteer (2014-16).
Sister Mary Catherine Keene is a native of Indianapolis. Currently, she ministers as the activities coordinator in Providence Hall at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.
Sister Mary Catherine entered the Congregation on Feb. 2, 1957, from Immaculate Heart, Indianapolis. She professed final vows on Aug. 15, 1964.
She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in music education. She also earned a master’s degree in music from the University of Illinois and a master of theological studies degree from Catholic Theological Union/Catholic Graduate School of Theology, Chicago.
Her ministries include:
- Aurora, Ill.: Teacher, St. Mary (1961-65),
- River Grove, Ill.: Teacher, Mother Theodore Guerin High School (1965-71),
- Terre Haute, Ind.: Teacher, St. Ann (1971-77),
- Memphis, Tenn.: Co-Director of Liturgy, Diocese of Memphis (1979-80),
- Memphis, Tenn.: Director for the Department of Liturgy, Diocese of Memphis (1980-81),
- Algonquin, Ill.: Liturgical Director, St. Margaret Mary Parish (1981-86),
- Indianapolis: Provincial Councilor, St. Gabriel Province (1986-90),
- Indianapolis: Retreat Ministry (1992-94),
- Indianapolis: Retreat Ministry/Activities Assistant, A Caring Place Adult Day Care (1994-95),
- Indianapolis; Activities Assistant, A Caring Place Adult Day Care (1995-98),
- Indianapolis: Retreat Ministry/Music and Art Specialist, A Caring Place Adult Day Care (1998-99),
- Indianapolis: Music and Art Specialist, A Caring Place Adult Day Care (1999-2005),
- Indianapolis: Special program for memory loss residents, Lakeview Manor Healthcare (2005-08), and
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Activities Coordinator for Providence and Owens Halls (2008-2015).
Sister Arlene Knarzer is a native of Indianapolis. Currently, she ministers in grant research, data analysis and accounting at Guerin College Preparatory High School, River Grove, Ill., and the Special Religious Development Agency for the Archdiocese of Chicago.
Sister Arlene, formerly Sister Jean Cecile, entered the Congregation on July 21, 1957, from St. Michael, Indianapolis. She professed final vows on Aug. 15, 1965.
She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. She also earned a master’s degree in business administration from Indiana State University and a master’s degree in library science from the University of Kentucky.
Her ministries include:
- Washington, Ind.: Teacher, St. Simon High School (1962-63),
- Chelsea, Mass.: Teacher, St. Rose High School (1963-65),
- River Grove, Ill.: Teacher, Mother Theodore Guerin High School (1965-66),
- Robstown, Texas: Teacher, St. John High School (1966-67),
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Assistant Treasurer, Sisters of Providence (1967-70),
- Indianapolis: Business officer, Ladywood-St. Agnes (1970-73),
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Business office, Sisters of Providence (1973-78),
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Assistant to director of finance, Sisters of Providence (1978-82),
- Lexington, Ky.: Radiological Medical Physics, University of Kentucky (1982-83),
- Lexington, Ky.: Student Budget Information Officer, University of Kentucky Medical Center (1983-84),
- South Bend, Ind.: Data Processing User Support-Office Automation, Holy Cross Health Systems (1985-86),
- Chicago: Assistant to chief Executive, JBI Manager of Illinois-Managers of Hospital Sisters Unity Health Plan (1986),
- Chicago: Director of Finance, JBI Manager of Illinois-Managers of Hospital Sisters Unity Health Plan (1986-87),
- Chicago: Special Projects Administrator, JBI Manager of Illinois-Managers of Hospital Sisters Unity Health Plan (1987-88),
- Grand Rapids, Mich.: Operations Administrator, Dominican Sisters of Marywood (1989-91)
- Minneapolis, Minn.: Financial Analyst (1993-95),
- Paul, Minn.: Parish Administrator, Church of St. Thomas the Apostle (1995-2005),
- Paul, Minn.: Business Manager, The Church of Saint Agnes (2005-07),
- Minneapolis: Development Coordinator, Cristo Rey Jesuit High School (2007-09), and
- Minneapolis: Special Projects Coordinator, Cristo Rey Jesuit High School (2009-2012).
Sister Carol Lindly is a native of Fort Wayne, Ind. Currently, she ministers as a volunteer in the Administration Building for the Sisters of Providence.
Sister Carol, formerly Sister Richard Ann, entered the Congregation on Feb. 2, 1957, from St. Patrick, Fort Wayne, Ind. She professed final vows on Aug. 15, 1964.
She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She also earned a master’s degree in elementary education from Indiana University.
Her ministries include:
- Jasper, Ind.: Teacher, St. Joseph (1961-67),
- Fort Wayne: Teacher, St. Patrick (1967-72),
- Jasper: Principal, St. Joseph (1972-79),
- Indianapolis: Principal, McClelland Elementary School (1979-89),
- Indianapolis: Principal, Stout Field Elementary School (1989-96),
- Indianapolis: Program Coordinator, Hispanic Education Center (1998-99),
- Indianapolis: Laboratory Technician, PRN Pharmaceutical (1999-2008), and
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Volunteer (2011-15).
Sister Patricia Mahoney is a native of Chicago. Currently, she ministers as a volunteer for the 22nd Police District in Chicago.
Sister Patricia, formerly Sister Kevin Joseph, entered the Congregation on Feb. 2, 1957, from St. Leo, Chicago. She professed final vows on Aug. 15, 1964.
She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She also earned a master’s degree in psychology from Illinois State University.
Her ministries include:
- Robstown, Texas: Teacher, St. John (1961-62),
- Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Thomas Aquinas (1962-67),
- Galesburg, Ill.: Teacher, Immaculate Heart (1967-68),
- Hammond, Ind.: Teacher, ST. Joseph (1968),
- Gary, Ind.: Associate Director, Diocesan CCD Office, Diocese of Gary (1968-71),
- Whiting, Ind.: Parish Religious Education Coordinator, St. John the Baptist Parish (1971-72),
- Palos Heights, Ill.: Religious Education Coordinator, St. Alexander Parish (1972-78),
- Bridgeview, Ill.: Director of Religious Education, St. Fabian Parish (1978-82),
- Hillside, Ill.: Teacher, ST. Domitilla School (1982-86),
- Chicago: Teacher, Jesus Our Brother School (1986-94),
- Chicago: Pastoral Associate/Director of Religious Education, St. Leo the Great Parish (1994-99),
- Chicago: Community Organizer (1999-2001),
- Chicago: Prevention Coordinator/Community Prosecutions Unit, State’s Attorney Office of Cook County (2001-07), and
- Chicago: Victim-Witness Specialist, Cook County State’s Attorney Office (2007-08).
Sister Carol Meyers is a native of Chicago. Currently, she ministers as a parish volunteer at St. Cyprian Parish, River Grove, Ill., an English as a Second Language tutor at the Dominican Literacy Center, Melrose Park, Ill., and a Montessori Consultant in Chicago.
Sister Carol, formerly Sister Michaeleen, entered the Congregation on Jan. 7, 1957, from Maternity BVM, Chicago. She professed final vows on Aug. 15, 1964.
She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She also earned a master’s degree in early childhood development from Indiana State University, and another master’s degree in adult education from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis.
Her ministries include:
- Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Matthew (1961-64),
- Washington, D.C.: Teacher, St. Ann (1964-70),
- Downers Grove, Ill.: Teacher, St. Joseph (1970-71),
- Lisle, Ill.: Montessori Teacher, Lisle Montessori (1972-74),
- Lockport, Ill.: Montessori Teacher, St. Dennis (1974-77),
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Instructor of Early Childhood/Montessori, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (1977-84),
- Plainfield, Ind.: Adult education, St. Suzanna (1984-85),
- Wheaton, Ill.: Pastoral Associate, St. Mark (1985-87),
- Villa Park, Ill.: Coordinator of Religious Education, St. John the Apostle Church (1987-88),
- Woodridge, Ill.: Pastoral Associate, St. Scholastica Parish (1988-92),
- Darien, Ill.: Pastoral Associate/Sacramental Program/Adult Education, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish (1992-94),
- Romeoville, Ill.: Head Start Teacher, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (1994-95),
- Lockport, Ill.: Teacher, St. Dennis School (1995-96),
- River Grove, Ill.: Supervision Staff, Mother Theodore Guerin High School (1998),
- River Forest, Ill.: Montessori Directress, Keystone Montessori School (1998-99),
- Chicago: Montessori Teacher, St. Bartholomew School (1999-2002),
- Chicago: Adjunct Instructor (English Department), Wright College (2002-03),
- Barrington, Ill.: Teacher’s Aide, St. Anne School (2003-04),
- Norridge, Ill.: Teacher, Divine Savior School (2004-05),
- Terrace, Ill.: Consultant, Oakbrook Montessori School (2005-07),
- Des Plaines, Ill.: Receptionist, St. Zachary Parish (2007),
- Des Plaines, Ill.: Teacher’s Aide, St. Zachary School (2008-10),
- Des Plaines, Ill.: Volunteer at St. Zachary Parish and school and volunteer/Montessori Consultant (2010-12),
- River Grove, Ill., Chicago: Volunteer/Montessori Consultant (2012-13), and
- River Grove, Ill.: Parish Volunteer/Montessori Consultant, St. Cyprian Parish (2013-14).
Sister Sharon Richards is a native of Owosso, Mich. Currently, she ministers as a volunteer at St. Alexander School, Palos Heights, Ill.
Sister Sharon, formerly Sister Charlene, entered the Congregation on Feb. 2, 1957, from Our Lady Queen of Martyrs, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She also earned a master’s degree in education from Marygrove College, Detroit, Mich.
Her ministries include:
- Chicago: Teacher, Our Lady of Sorrows (1961-67),
- Fayetteville, N.C.: Teacher, St. Ann (1967-69),
- Fayetteville, N.C.: Teacher, St. Patrick (1969-72),
- Charlotte, N.C.: Teacher, St. Ann (1972-73),
- Asheville, N.C.: Teacher, St. Joan of Arc (1973-74),
- Lansdowne, Md.: Teacher, St. Clement (1974-75),
- Palos Heights, Ill.: Teacher, St. Alexander (1975-2003),
- Joliet, Ill.: Teacher, Center for Correctional Concern (2004-16), and
- Joliet: Library volunteer, Center for Correctional Concern (2016).
Sister Elizabeth Smigla is a native of Chicago. Currently, she ministers as a volunteer advocate for immigrants, victims and prisoners at Taller de San Joseph and Kolbe House, Chicago.
Sister Elizabeth, formerly Sister Ann Martin, entered the Congregation on July 22, 1957, from Holy Innocents, Chicago. She professed final vows on Aug. 15, 1965.
She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She also earned a master’s degree in special education – with a concentration in learning disabilities – from Northeastern Illinois University.
Her ministries include:
- Lansdowne, Md.: Teacher, St. Clement (1961-65),
- Louise, Mo.: Techer, Annunziata (1965-69),
- Juliaca, Peru: Parish work, teacher (1970-71),
- Arequipa, Peru: Regional Superior, teacher (1971-76),
- Chicago: Teacher, St. Sylvester (1976-77),
- Chicago: Teacher, St. Sylvester (1978-83),
- Chicago: Assistant principal, teacher, St. Sylvester (1983-86),
- Chicago: Principal, St. Roman School (1986-91),
- Chicago: Principal, St. Mark School (1991-2004),
- Chicago: Principal, St. Agnes of Bohemia (2005-07), and
- Chicago: Substitute teacher, Chicago Public Schools (2007-09).
70-year Jubilarians
Sister Agnes Maureen Badura is a native of Chicago. Currently, she ministers in residential services at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.
Sister Agnes Maureen entered the Congregation on July 22, 1947, from SS Cyril and Methodius Parish, Chicago. She professed final vows on Jan. 23, 1955.
She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics. She also earned a master’s degree in mathematics from Marquette University.
Her ministries include:
- Joliet: Teacher, St. Mary Carmelite (1950),
- Alhambra, Calif.: Teacher, St. Therese (1950-51),
- Oklahoma City, Okla.: Teacher, Corpus Christi (1951-54),
- Chicago: Teacher, St. Angela (1955-58),
- Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Philip Neri (1958-61),
- Washington, D.C.: Teacher, Immaculata Preparatory School (1961-65),
- Evanston, Ill.: Teacher, Marywood (1965-69),
- Washington, D.C.: Teacher, Immaculata Preparatory School (1969-79),
- River Grove, Ill.: Teacher, Mother Theodore Guerin High School (1980-84),
- Tustin, Calif.: Provincial Treasurer, St. Michael Provincial House (1984-87),
- West Hills, Calif.: Teacher, Chaminade College Preparatory (1987-88),
- Palm Beach, Fla.: Teacher, Rosarian Academy (1988-89),
- Chicago: Personnel Benefits Clerk, Our Lady of the Resurrection Medical Center (1989-93),
- Chicago: Human Resources Associate/Benefits, Our Lady of the Resurrection Medical Center (1993-95),
- Chicago: Coding Technician, Our Lady of the Resurrection Medical Center (1995),
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Special Projects Assistant, Sisters of Providence (1995-96),
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Staff, Central Business Office, Sisters of Providence (1996-2001),
- Chicago: Special Religious Development Agency business office volunteer (2002-11), and
- Terre Haute, Ind.: Volunteer, Wabash Valley Health Center (2012-14).
Sister Joyce Brophy is a native of Joliet, Ill. Currently, she ministers as a volunteer at Providence Spirituality & Conference Center, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.
Sister Joyce, formerly Sister Robert Ellen, entered the Congregation on July 22, 1947, from St. Mary’s (Carmelite), Joliet, Ill. She professed final vows on Jan. 23, 1955.
She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She also earned a master’s degree in education from Indiana State University.
Her ministries include:
- Chicago: Teacher, St. Sylvester (1950-54),
- Chicago: Teacher, Our Lady of Mercy (1955),
- Van Nuys, Calif.: Teacher, ST. Elisabeth (1955-59),
- Galesburg, Ill.: Principal, Immaculate Heart (1959-65),
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Mistress of Postulants, Sisters of Providence (1965-68),
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Director of Scholastics, Sisters of Providence (1968-69),
- Chicago: Teacher, St. Agnes (1969),
- Chicago: Principal, St. Genevieve (1969-71),
- Galesburg, Ill.: Principal, Immaculate Heart of Mary (1971-72),
- Galesburg, Ill.: Principal/Administrator, Costa Catholic (1972-79),
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Assistant Vice President for Development, Sisters of Providence (1980-82),
- South Bend, Ind.: Religious Leaders Program, University of Notre Dame (1982-83),
- Joliet, Ill.: Educational Consultan, Catholic School Office (1983-84),
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Provincial, Sacred Heart Province (1984-91),
- Lockport, Ill.: Principal, St. Dennis School (1992-95),
- Terre Haute, Ind.: Teacher, Sacred Heart School (1995-99), and
- West Terre Haute, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Volunteer (Connecting Link), and Providence Center (1999-2012).
Sister Margaret Heese is a native of Robstown, Texas. Currently, she ministers in residential services at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.
Sister Margaret, formerly Sister Margaret Bernard, entered the Congregation on June 17, 1947, from St. John, Robstown, Texas. She professed final vows on Jan. 23, 1955.
She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She also earned a master’s degree in art education from Northern Arizona University.
Her ministries include:
- Chicago: Teacher, St. Sylvester (1950-54),
- Chicago: Teacher, St. Andrew (1955-58),
- Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Thomas (1958-60),
- Tulsa, Okla.: Teacher, Immaculate Conception (1960-65),
- Alhambra, Calif.: Teacher, St. Therese (1965-68),
- Robstown, Texas: Teacher, St. John (1968-70),
- Alhambra, Calif.: Teacher, St. Therese (1970-75),
- Flagstaff, Ariz.: Campus Minister, Northern Arizona University (1975-78),
- Los Angeles: Teacher, St. Teresa of Avila (1978-79),
- Gardena, Calif.: Teacher, St. Anthony (1979-80),
- Lakewood, Calif.: Teacher, St. Joseph (1980-85),
- Chico, Calif.: Parish Ministry, St. John the Baptist (1985-88),
- Corpus Christi, Texas: Director of Religious Education, St. Therese Parish (1988-89),
- Corpus Christi, Texas: Director of Religious Education, Most Precious Blood Parish (1990-2000),
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Archives Staff, Sisters of Providence (2001-02), and
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Providence Hall Sewing Room, Sisters of Providence (2002-11).
Sister Mary Ann Lechner is a native of Jasper, Ind. Currently, she ministers as a volunteer for the Sisters of Providence Mission Advancement Department.
Sister Mary Ann, formerly Sister Robert Ann, entered the Congregation on Jan. 8, 1947, from St. Joseph, Jasper, Ind. She professed final vows on Aug. 15, 1954.
She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She also earned a master’s degree in education from Indiana State University.
Her ministries include:
- Chicago: Teacher, St. Mel (1949-54),
- Terre Haute, Ind.: Teacher, St. Joseph (1954-56),
- Joliet, Ill.: Teacher, St. Mary Carmelite (1956-59),
- Plainfield, Ind.: Teacher, Principal, St. Susanna (1959-65),
- Vincennes, Ind.: Teacher, St. John (1965-67),
- Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Ann (1967-68),
- Vincennes, Ind.: Teacher, Principal, St. Francis Xavier (1968-69),
- Lafayette, Ind.: Teacher, St. Mary (1969-72),
- Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Ann (1972-76),
- Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Joan of Arc (1976-81),
- Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Simon (1981-97),
- Indianapolis: GED Coordinator, Hispanic Education Center (1998-2003),
- Indianapolis: Volunteer Financial Assistant, La Plaza (2003-10),
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Volunteer Receptionist, Woods Day Care/Pre-School (2010-14), and
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Volunteer, Providence Spirituality & Conference Center and Archives, Sisters of Providence (2014-16).
Sister Joan Matthews is a native of Columbus, Ohio. Currently, she ministers in residential services at Providence Health Care, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.
Sister Joan, formerly Sister Ignatius, entered the Congregation on July 22, 1947, from St. Ann, Washington, D.C. She professed final vows on Jan. 23, 1955.
She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in music. She also earned a master’s degree in voice from Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C.
Her ministries include:
- New Albany: Teacher, Holy Trinity (1950),
- Chicago: Teacher, St. Mel (1950-52),
- Terre Haute, Ind.: Teacher, St. Margaret Mary, St. Joseph and Sacred Heart (1952-53),
- Hammond, Ind.: Teacher, St. Joseph (1953-54),
- Wilmette, Ill.: Teacher, St. Francis Xavier (1955),
- Norwood Park, Ill.: Teacher, Immaculate Conception (1955-59),
- Halethorpe, Md.: Teacher, Ascension (1959-62),
- Washington, D.C.: Teacher, St. Ann (1962-65),
- Vincennes, Ind.: Teacher, St. Rose (1965-68),
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Corporate Renewal Team, Sisters of Providence (1972-75),
- Orange, Calif.: Teacher, Marywood (1975-79),
- Washington, D.C.: Teacher, Immaculate Conception Academy (1980-84),
- College Park, Md.: Teacher, Holy Redeemer School (1989-93),
- Chelsea, Mass.: Teacher, St. Rose School (1993-97),
- Jasper, Ind.: Teacher, Precious Blood School/Parish (1997-98),
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Residential Services, Sisters of Providence (1998),
- Solomons, Md.: Teacher, Our Lady Star of the Sea School (1998-2002),
- Yuching, Taiwan: Teacher, St. Theresa Opportunity (2002-03), and
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Sacristan, musician, Sisters of Providence (2003-07).
Sister Maureen Ann McCarthy is a native of Chicago. Currently, she ministers in residential services at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.
Sister Maureen Ann entered the Congregation on Feb. 2, 1947, from St. Genevieve, Chicago. She professed final vows on Aug. 15, 1954.
She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. She also earned a master’s degree in education from Indiana State University.
Her ministries include:
- Lansdowne, Md.: Teacher, St. Clement (1949-50),
- Sellersburg, Ind.: Teacher, St. Paul (1950-51),
- Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Anthony (1951-54),
- Burlington, N.C.: Teacher, Blessed Sacrament (1954-55),
- Downers Grove, Ill.: Teacher, St. Joseph (1955-57),
- Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Philip Neri (1957-58),
- Robstown, Texas: Teacher, St. John (1958-59),
- Chicago: Teacher, St. Angela (1959-60),
- Chicago: Teacher, St. Columbkille (1960-65),
- Joliet, Ill.: Teacher, St. Mary Carmelite (1965-67),
- Chicago: Teacher, St. Francis Borgia (1967-72),
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: House of Prayer, residential services, Sisters of Providence (1972-73),
- Chicago: Teacher, St. Andrew (1973-75),
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: General Business Office, Sisters of Providence (1975-76),
- Chicago: Teacher, St. Genevieve (1976-82),
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Coordinator of Transportation, Sisters of Providence (1982-85),
- Chicago: Teacher, Immaculate Conception (1985-86),
- Chicago: Teacher, Providence-St. Mel (1986-97), and
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Residential services (1997-2002).
Sister Lucille Nolan is a native of Galesburg, Ill. Currently, she ministers as a hospice volunteer and ministry to homebound in Olympia Fields and Sauk Village, Ill.
Sister Lucille, formerly Sister Mary Lucille, entered the Congregation on July 22, 1947, from Corpus Christi, Galesburg, Ill. She professed final vows on Jan. 23, 1955.
She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in music education. She also earned a master’s degree in music education from the University of Illinois.
Her ministries include:
- Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Bridget (1950),
- Robstown, Texas: Teacher, St. John (1950-51),
- Burlington, N.C.: Teacher, Blessed Sacrament (1951-54),
- Terre Haute, Ind.: Teacher, St. Ann (1955-56),
- Robstown, Texas: Teacher, St. John (1956-61),
- Downers Grove, Ill.: Teacher, St. Joseph (1961-65),
- Galesburg, Ill.: Teacher, Immaculate Heart/Costa (1965-68),
- Indianapolis: Teacher, Cathedral Grade School and Holy Cross (1968-69),
- Oklahoma City, Okla.: Teacher, Corpus Christi (1969-73),
- Galesburg, Ill.: Teacher, Costa Catholic (1973-83),
- Niles, Ill.: Church musician, teacher, St. Isaac Jogues (1983-85),
- Waukegan, Ill.: Director of Music and Liturgy, St. Dismas Parish (1985-94),
- Waukegan, Ill.: Director of Music and Liturgy, St. James Parish (1994-2004),
- Sauk Village, Ill.: Assistant in Religious Education/Children’s Music, St. James Parish (2004-08),
- Chicago area: Ministry to the homebound (2009-2010), and
- Chicago area: Volunteer, hospice bereavement, ministry to homebound (2010-16).
75-year Jubilarians
Sister Mary Patricia Cummings is a native of New Albany, Ind. Currently, she ministers in prayer at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.
Sister Mary Patricia, formerly Sister Marie Janice, entered the Congregation on Jan. 7, 1942, from Holy Trinity, New Albany, Ind. She professed final vows on Aug. 15, 1949.
She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She also earned a master’s degree in education from Indiana State University and another master’s degree in religious studies from Catholic Spalding University, Louisville, Ky.
Her ministries include:
- Chicago: Teacher, St. Sylvester (1944-46),
- Fort Wayne, Ind.: Teacher, St. Jude (1948-49),
- Whiting, Ind.: Teacher, St. John the Baptist (1949-53),
- Indianapolis: Teacher, ST. Thomas Aquinas (1953-56),
- Washington, D.C.: Teacher, Immaculata (1956-57),
- Halethorpe, Md.: Teacher, Ascension (1957-59),
- Chicago: Teacher, St. Genevieve (1959-61),
- Vincennes, Ind.: Teacher/Principal, St. John (1961-67),
- New Albany, Ind.: Teacher, Holy Family (1967-69),
- Jasper, Ind.: Teacher/Principal, Precious Blood (1969-70),
- Bloomington, Ind.: Teacher, St. Charles (1970-71),
- Clarksville, Ind.: Teacher, Our Lady of Providence High School (1971-76),
- New Albany, Ind.: Part-time Pastoral Associate, Baptist Hospital/St. Augustine Parish (1976-77),
- Jeffersonville, Ind.: Pastoral Associate, St. Augustine Parish (1978-85),
- Chicago: Parish Ministry/Director of Adult Education/Director of Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, Immaculate Conception Parish (1985-2000), and
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Residential Services, Sisters of Providence (2001-08).
Sister Francis Edwards is a native of Oklahoma City, Okla. Currently, she ministers in residential services at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.
Sister Francis, formerly Sister Francis Bernard, entered the Congregation on Sept. 8, 1942, from Corpus Christi, Oklahoma City, Okla. She professed final vows on Aug. 15, 1950.
She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics. She also earned a master’s degree in mathematics from Indiana State University and a master’s of library science from the University of Oklahoma.
Her ministries include:
- Chicago: Teacher, Maternity BVM (1945-47),
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Library, Sisters of Providence (1947),
- Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Catherine (1948-50),
- Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Anthony (1950-52),
- Indianapolis: Teacher, St. John Academy (1952-55),
- Vincennes, Ind.: Teacher, St. Rose High School (1955-59),
- Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Agnes Academy (1959-66),
- Evansville, Ind.: Teacher, Evansville Reitz Memorial High School (1966-68),
- Indianapolis: Teacher, Ladywood High School (1968-69),
- Manchester, Mo.: Teacher, John F. Kennedy (1969-71),
- Indianapolis: Teacher, Ladywood-St. Agnes (1971-72),
- Oklahoma City, Okla.: Teacher, McGuiness (1972-77),
- Oklahoma City, Okla.: Librarian, McGuiness (1978-79),
- Panorama City, Calif.: Librarian, St. Genevieve (1979-91),
- Montebello, Calif.: Librarian, Cantwell/Sacred Heart of Mary (1991-94),
- Camarillo, Calif.: Assistant Librarian, St. John Seminary College (1994-97),
- Sherman Oaks, Calif.: Assistant Librarian, Notre Dame High School (1998-99),
- Sherman Oaks, Calif.: Convent Service (1999-2001),
- Sherman Oaks, Calif.: Volunteer Service (2001-04),
- Indianapolis: Librarian, Providence Cristo Rey High School (2006-08),
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Staff, Office of Records, Sisters of Providence (2008-11), and
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.: Owens Hall Library, residential services, Sisters of Providence (2011-15).
About the Sisters of Providence
The Sisters of Providence, a congregation of 214 women religious, with 300 Providence Associates, collaborate with others to create a more just and hope-filled world through prayer, education, service and advocacy. The Sisters of Providence have their motherhouse at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, located just northwest of downtown Terre Haute, Ind., which is now listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Saint Mother Theodore Guerin founded the Sisters of Providence at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods in 1840. Today, Sisters of Providence minister in 13 states, the District of Columbia and Asia, through works of love, mercy and justice. More information about the Sisters of Providence and their ministries can be found at SistersofProvidence.org.
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For inquiries or information, contact Jason Moon at jmoon@spsmw.org or 812-535-2810.