
- About
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Love, mercy, justice
The Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods are a community of vowed Catholic women religious. Inspired by our foundress Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, we are passionate about our lives of prayer, education, service and advocacy.
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- Justice
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Break boundaries, create hope
Spirituality and justice go hand-in-hand. We are committed to walking with those on the margins. Join us on our journey to make Earth better for all.
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- Be inspired
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What inspires you?
We all need a little spiritual inspiration sometimes. Let the wisdom of our Providence Community support you on your journey.
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- Visit
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Experience the Woods
From the moment you step onto the grounds at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, you know you're somewhere special. There's something for everyone at the Woods.
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- Get involved
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Where do you fit in?
Reconnect or find new opportunities with the Providence Community. Volunteer in one of our many ministries, be an intern on the farm, explore job opportunities or reminisce about your alma mater.
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- Join
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Join the Providence Family
Live joyfully! Single, Catholic women ages 18-42 are invited to explore a fulfilling life as a Sister of Providence. All women and men of faith are invited to join the family of Providence as Providence Associates.
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- Prayer Requests
- Contact us
- Donate
Sheila Galvin is a Providence Associate with the Sisters of Providence and is a 1987 graduate of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College. She currently resides in Louisville, Kentucky, and is an intensive intervention, special education teacher in the New Albany-Floyd County, Indiana, school district.

Back to school: A teacher’s perspective
Don’t believe anyone who tells you there is no prayer in public school! This teacher is praying all the time!

A poem inspired by spring at the Woods
Reserves
Did Trees stand tall at your arrival?
Did Wind whisper a welcome in your ear?

Thin times and profound connection
I don't know that I have profound ideas about “thin times” as much as I have great curiosity and now new terminology to describe moments when it seems the veil is most sheer between the living and those who have passed. Between two hearts who hear each other's song. For those times when the divine shines through the eyes of those in our midst and pierces the heart.

