Get to know

the Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods

You may have met a Sister of Providence serving in your parish or teaching at your school. You may have served with a Sister of Providence in a food pantry or had one care for you as a nurse or physician assistant. Sisters of Providence are all around you!

We are a community of Roman Catholic women religious (vowed sisters). We Sisters of Providence live out Jesus’ radical Gospel message by dedicating our lives to love, mercy and justice. We collaborate with others to create a more just and hope-filled world through prayer, education, service and advocacy.

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Rooted for tomorrow

For more than 175 years, our sisters have been breaking boundaries and creating hope by serving people on the margins of society throughout the United States and in Asia. We serve according to each of our diverse talents, in the areas of education, social and ecological justice ministries, health care, church and spiritual ministry and more.

colorful portrait painting of Mother Theodore with halo

Founded by a saint

Our Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana, Congregation was founded in 1840 by Saint Mother Theodore Guerin. A strong and faith-filled woman leader, she remains a guiding force in our lives.

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Living love, mercy & justice

Today, more than 250 Sisters of Providence minister in the United States and Taiwan. Our motherhouse is located at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana, 10 miles northwest of Terre Haute. Did you know that you can join us in bringing love, mercy and justice to God’s people?

Get to know the Sisters of Providence mission, joy and spirit better

  • Leadership & vision

    Our General Council and Congregation goals

  • FAQ

    about the Sisters of Providence

  • Find a Sister

    Search our sister profiles

Photo albums

Meet a sister

Oral history: Sister Kathleen Desautels, change maker

“I have had a lot of wonderful experiences. Our nuns, they may not have always agreed but we held each other in peace. I’ve had wonderful experiences of community.”

Read More

Stay connected

Our enewsletters and publications will keep you up to date with the  best content from the Sisters of Providence.

Visit the Woods

Become a Sister

Become a Providence Associate

Alumnae/i

Saint Mother Theodore Guerin

Our Foundress

Saint Mother Theodore Guerin