Saint Mother Theodore Guerin

“What have we to do in order to be saints? Nothing extraordinary; nothing more than what we do every day. Only do it for [God’s] love…”

– Saint Mother Theodore Guerin

You might have more in common with a saint than you think. Meet Saint Mother Theodore Guerin. She’s a saint now, but during her life she was a real person who dealt with real problems. She didn’t want to take on the difficult mission of leaving France to start a congregation in the frontier of Indiana. However, her trust in Providence — the protective care of God — led her to Saint Mary-of-the-Woods where she accomplished amazing things.

We hope her story inspires and encourages you in your daily life.

Sister-Mary-Montgomery-web

“I say I lean on Providence but I also lean on Mother Theodore. She’s such a great support and inspiration.”

Sister Mary Montgomery

Sister Denise Wilkinson

“I believe Mother Theodore’s treasures were these: steadfast belief in Providence; an enduring and practical love of people ... and a sense of this place, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, as the deep well from which she drank in the presence, strength, and elaborate beauty of God.”

Sister Denise Wilkinson

Former general superior

About Saint Mother Theodore

Her story will show you what faith and courage can accomplish.

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The words of a saint

Saint Mother Theodore Guerin was a prolific and wise writer. Her letters, journals and collected quotes have been, and continue to be, inspirational to thousands of people.

Search for inspiration in her hundreds of quotes.

Quote of the day

November 21
“Sister St. Francis is resuscitated enough to preach for the jubilee. To see if she is dead, we shall have to take a little, or even a big boy to her room and ask her about preparing him for Baptism or for Confession. If she opens neither her eyes nor her mouth, we may have the funeral in all safety.”
– Saint Mother Theodore Guerin

Becoming a Saint

How did she go from extraordinary woman to saint?

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Quick Facts

Do you need more details?

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Miracle Stories

Read about the miracles that contributed to sainthood.

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Saint Mother Theodore stories

You can get to know her by reading the words of those who knew her.

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Connect and grow

Whether you come to the Woods in person or read her words from across the world, Saint Mother Theodore meets you where are.

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  • Quotes

    Read her daily quote and search for inspiration.

Saint Mother Theodore Guerin

“What strength the soul draws from prayer! In the midst of a storm, how sweet is the calm it finds in the heart of Jesus.”

Saint Mother Theodore Guerin

1798-1856, Foundress of the Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana

Her Sisters of Providence today

Who are the women who continue her mission?

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Photo albums

SMTG-History Page

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Archives & Research

Resources & shop

Books, statues, medals and other Saint Mother Theodore items are available for purchase at Linden Leaf Gifts, in store or online.