- 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
Sister Barbara Battista is a native of Indianapolis who currently ministers as the Congregation's Justice Promoter. She credits her social justice activism to her mother Alice's strong example. Raised in a large and extended Italian family household, Sister Barbara comes by community organizing quite naturally. She is a passionate and energetic advocate for full equity and equality for women and girls in church and society.

Holy Saturday – Waiting in Darkness
Whatever the call, let us resolve to extend the Light of Christ however, whenever, and wherever we can.

U.S. Climate Regulations Rollbacks: A Call to Action
Will you join us?


A note from Sister Barbara from her experience in the death chamber
'I watched a man die.'

A Note from Sister Barbara Battista: August 12, 2024
Voting in elections is how we voice our values and shoe genuine respect for others

A Note from Sister Barbara, July 10, 2024
New research is underway on the history of the land where we settled

A note from Sister Barbara, June 12, 2024
"When you think about the 'homeless' or 'unhoused,' what comes to your mind?"
A Note from the JUSTus Podcast Team, May 8, 2024
Edna Ruth Byler of the Mennonite Central Committee started working on Fair Trade in 1946 after visiting a women’s sewing circle in Puerto Rico. Although living in poverty, the women of the village created beautiful lace – which she brought…

A Note from Sister Barbara Battista, April 9, 2024
'Our perspectives have been shifted a little ...'

A note from Sister Barbara Battista, March 13, 2024
Educate yourselves against racism