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News release

Thirty Sisters of Providence celebrate Senior Jubilees

A total of 30 Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana, celebrate 60-, 70-, 75- and 80-year Jubilees this year.

The 30 sisters were treated to a Senior Jubilee celebration on Thursday, Dec. 8, in Providence Hall.

Sisters of Providence 60-year Jubilarians Sister Ann Casper, Sister Josephine Paolinelli, Sister Irma Meuse, Sister Mary Ann Fox, Sister Ellen Kehoe, Sister Mary Louise O'Connor, Sister Mary Frances Keusal, Sister Catherine Buster, Sister Maureen Abbott, Sister Joanne Golding and Sister Joan Kirkpatrick were honored on Dec. 8, during the annual Senior Jubilee Celebration. They were joined by the General Council, including Sister Dawn Tomaszewski, Sister Lisa Stallings, Sister Mary Beth Klingel, Sister Jeanne Hagelskamp and Sister Jenny Howard. Not pictured: 60-year Jubilarians Sister Agnes Clare Buckley and Sister Mary Adrian Jaroch.
Sisters of Providence 60-year Jubilarians Sister Ann Casper, Sister Josephine Paolinelli, Sister Irma Meuse, Sister Mary Ann Fox, Sister Ellen Kehoe, Sister Mary Louise O’Connor, Sister Mary Frances Keusal, Sister Catherine Buster, Sister Maureen Abbott, Sister Joanne Golding and Sister Joan Kirkpatrick were honored on Dec. 8, during the annual Senior Jubilee Celebration. They were joined by the General Council, including Sister Dawn Tomaszewski, Sister Lisa Stallings, Sister Mary Beth Klingel, Sister Jeanne Hagelskamp and Sister Jenny Howard. Not pictured: 60-year Jubilarians Sister Agnes Clare Buckley and Sister Mary Adrian Jaroch.

60-year Jubilarians

Sister Mary Louise O’Connor is a native of Fall River, Mass. Currently, she ministers in prayer at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

Sister Mary Louise, formerly Sister James Margaret, entered the Congregation on July 22, 1956, from Holy Name, Fall River, Mass. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1964.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in social studies. She earned her master’s degree in education from Indiana State University.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • West Terre Haute: Teacher, St. Leonard (1959-60),
  • Loogootee: Teacher, St. John High School (1961-63),
  • Indianapolis: Mentoring Coordinator, Development Education Program for Religious (1990-92),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Business Manager, Providence Center (1993-97),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Business/Facilities Manager, Providence Center (1997-99), and
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Staff, Central Business Office (1999).

Sister Mary Louise has also ministered in Washington D.C., and Palm Beach, Fla.

Sister Mary Adrian Jaroch is a native of Chicago. Currently, she ministers in convent service at the Mother Theodore Guerin Convent, River Grove, Ill.

Sister Mary Adrian entered the Congregation on July 1, 1956, from St. Andrew, Chicago. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1963.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She earned her registered nursing degree from St. Joseph Hospital.

Sister Mary Adrian Jaroch

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Evansville: Teacher, Good Shepherd (1960-61),
  • Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Catherine (1961-67),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Infirmary Staff (1967-70),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Infirmary Registered Nurse (1976-78), and
  • New Albany: Foster Parent/Nurse Educator, Providence Self Sufficiency Ministries (1995-96).

Sister Mary Adrian has also ministered in Illinois, Washington D.C., and Connecticut.

Sister Ann Casper is a native of Huntington. Currently, she ministers as executive director for Mission Advancement for the Sisters of Providence.

Sister Ann, formerly Sister Kenneth Ann, entered the Congregation on Jan. 4, 1956, from St. Patrick, Fort Wayne. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1963.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in social studies. She earned a master’s degree in secondary education administration from Indiana State University, and another master’s degree in pastoral theology from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Brazil: Teacher, Annunciation (1960-62),
  • Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Philip Neri (1962-64),
  • Fort Wayne: Teacher, Central Catholic High School (1967-68),
  • Indianapolis: Principal, St. Agnes Academy (1969-70),
  • Indianapolis: Assistant Principal, Ladywood-St. Agnes (1970-72),
  • Indianapolis: Principal, Ladywood-St. Agnes (1972-76),
  • Newburgh: Teacher, ST. John (1976-77),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Provincial, Sacred Heart Province (1977-84),
  • Fort Wayne: Pastoral Associate, St. John the Baptist Parish (1984-86),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: General Secretary Councilor, Sisters of Providence General Administration (1986-96),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Project Team Member-Lilly Grant, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (1997),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Director, Gerontology Sabbath Renewal Program, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (1997),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Director, Gerontology Sabbath Renewal Program/Editorial Associate (Office of Congregational Advancement), Sisters of Providence (1997-99),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Associate Director, Office of Congregational Advancement (1999-2001), and
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Director, Office of Congregational Advancement (2001-04).

Sister Ann has also ministered in North Carolina.

Sister Joanne Golding is a native of Hammond. Currently, she ministers as a consultant and technician for the sisters’ information technology department.

Sister Joanne, formerly Sister David Therese, entered the Congregation on July 22, 1956, from St. Ann, Lansing, Ill. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1964.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She earned her master’s degree in education from Indiana State University, and a PhD in administration and supervision from Indiana State University. She also earned a master’s in business administration from Kensington University.

Her Indiana ministries include:

  • Indianapolis: Teacher, Assistant Principal, Holy Spirit (1968-69),
  • Terre Haute: Principal, St. Ann (1971-74),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Consultant Science Research Associates, Owens Hall (1974-75),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Director of Continuing Education, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (1975-77),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Director of Data Processing, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (1982-85),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Department Chairperson of Business, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (1985-92),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Associate Professor of Computer Science, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (1992-93),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Professor of Computer Science, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (1993-2007),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Professor Emerita/Academic Computing Specialist and webmaster, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (2007-08),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Director of Academic Computing, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (2008-11), and
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Volunteer (2011-14).

Sister Joanne has also ministered in Missouri and Illinois.

Sister Irma Meuse is a native of Malden, Mass. Currently, she ministers in outreach in Stoneham, Mass.

Sister Irma, formerly Sister Ann Peter, entered the Congregation on July 21, 1956, from Sacred Hearts, Malden, Mass. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1964.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She earned her master’s degree in education from Indiana State University, and another master’s in social work from Boston University.

Her Indiana ministry was as a teacher at Our Lady of the Greenwood, from 1961-64.

Sister Irma has also ministered in Illinois, Maryland, New Hampshire and Massachusetts.

Sister Mary Frances Keusal is a native of Chicago. Currently, she ministers as a volunteer in hospice bereavement at Horizon Hospice and Palliative Care Center, Olympia Fields, Ill.

Sister Mary Frances, formerly Sister Ann Marion, entered the Congregation on Jan. 4, 1956, from St. Eugene, Chicago. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1963.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She earned a master’s degree in special education from Illinois State University.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Linton: Teacher, St. Peter (1960-61), and
  • Evansville: Teacher, Good Shepherd (1961-66).

Sister Mary Frances has also ministered in Oklahoma and Illinois.

Sister Joan Kirkpatrick is a native of Walsenburg, Colo. Currently, she ministers in care at Providence Health Care at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

Sister Joan, formerly Sister Joan Patrice, entered the Congregation on July 22, 1956, from Our Lady of Angels, Hillsborough, Calif. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1964.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics. She earned her master’s degree in administration from the University of Notre Dame, and another master’s degree in counseling psychology from Santa Clara University.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Teacher, Aspirancy (1959-61),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Treasurer/Business Manager for Motherhouse Operations, Sacred Heart Province (1974-82),
  • New Albany: Counselor, Providence Self Sufficiency Ministries (1998-2003), and
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Assistant to Ministry of Care administrator, Health Care Services (2004-13).

Sister Joan has also ministered in Illinois and California.

Sister Mary Ann Fox is a native of Fort Wayne. Currently, she ministers in prayer at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

Sister Mary Ann, formerly Sister Marie Clement, entered the Congregation on July 22, 1956, from St. Jude, Fort Wayne. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1964.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She earned her master’s degree in education from Indiana University.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Brownsburg: Teacher, St. Malachy (1961-66),
  • Fort Wayne: Teacher, St. John the Baptist (1966-69),
  • Fort Wayne: Principal, St. John the Baptist (1969-81),
  • Fort Wayne: Religion Administrative Assistant, Bishop Luers High School (1982-84),
  • Fort Wayne: Teacher, Bishop Luers High School (1984-90),
  • Fort Wayne: Assistant Principal, Bishop Luers High School (1990-92),
  • Fort Wayne: Receptionist Surgical Waiting, Lutheran Hospital of Indiana (1993-97), and
  • Fort Wayne: Tutor, Center for Academic Excellence, Ivy Tech Community College Northeast (1997-2014).

Sister Mary Ann has also ministered in Illinois.

Sister Catherine Buster is a native of Chicago. Currently, she ministers as a volunteer for Catholic Charities Housing, in the Diocese of Venice, located in Venice, Fla.

Sister Catherine, formerly Sister Joseph Norine, entered the Congregation on Feb. 2, 1956, from St. Francis Xavier, Wilmette, Ill. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1963.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Indianapolis: Cook, Ladywood (1960-67),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Cook (1967-78),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Maintenance Coordinator/Saga Food Service Liaison (1978-86), and
  • Noblesville: Food Service Director for Marriott Corporation, Riverview Hospital (1988-89).

Sister Catherine has also ministered in Missouri, Illinois and Florida.

Sister Josephine Paolinelli is a native of Chicago. Currently, she ministers as a volunteer at Gottlieb Hospital, Melrose Park, Ill.

Sister Josephine, formerly Sister Louise Joseph, entered the Congregation on Feb. 2, 1956, from St. Ferdinand, Chicago. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1963.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She received her master’s degree in administration from the University of Notre Dame.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Jasper: Teacher, St. Joseph (1960-61), and
  • Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Patrick (1961-65).

Sister Josephine has also ministered in Illinois.

Sister Agnes Clare Buckley
Sister Agnes Clare Buckley

Sister Agnes Clare Buckley is a native of Malden, Mass. Currently, she ministers in prayer in South Boston.

Sister Agnes Clare entered the Congregation on Feb. 2, 1956, from St. Rose, Chelsea, Mass. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1963.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education.

Sister Agnes Clare has ministered in Illinois, Maryland and Massachusetts.

Sister Ellen Kehoe is a native of Dallas, Texas. Currently, she ministers as a pastoral associate and coordinator for the religious education program at the Holy Spirit Parish Newman Center, University of Kentucky.

Sister Ellen, formerly Sister Theresa Mary, entered the Congregation on July 22, 1956, from Immaculate Conception, Tulsa, Okla. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1964.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She earned a master’s degree in education-counseling psychology from the University of Illinois, and another master’s degree in theology from the Jesuit School of Theology.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Luke (1964-65), and
  • Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Thomas Aquinas (1973-81).

Sister Ellen has also ministered in Maryland, California and Kentucky.

Sister Maureen Abbott is a native of Buffalo, N.Y. Currently, she ministers as the community historian for the Sisters of Providence.

Sister Maureen, formerly Sister Maureen Francis, entered the Congregation on July 22, 1956, from Robstown, Texas. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1964.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She received her master’s degree in education administration from the University of Washington, and another master’s degree in theology from the University of Notre Dame.

Her Indiana ministry was as a teacher at St. Andrew, Indianapolis, from 1961-65.

Sister Maureen has also ministered in California, Illinois and Oregon.

Sisters of Providence 70-year Jubilarians Sister Joanne Cullins, Sister Mary Mark Dede, Sister Marie Alexis Geiger, Sister Lois Ann Stoiber, Sister Adele Beacham, Sister Margaret Ann Wilson, Sister Anita Bechert, Sister Mary Maxine Teipen, Sister Mary Lois Hennel and Sister Caroline Hatch were honored on Dec. 8, during the annual Senior Jubilee Celebration. They were joined by the General Council, including Sister Dawn Tomaszewski, Sister Lisa Stallings, Sister Mary Beth Klingel, Sister Jeanne Hagelskamp and Sister Jenny Howard. Not pictured: 70-year Jubilarians Sister Adelaide Ortegel and Sister Marie Brendan Harvey.
Sisters of Providence 70-year Jubilarians Sister Joanne Cullins, Sister Mary Mark Dede, Sister Marie Alexis Geiger, Sister Lois Ann Stoiber, Sister Adele Beacham, Sister Margaret Ann Wilson, Sister Anita Bechert, Sister Mary Maxine Teipen, Sister Mary Lois Hennel and Sister Caroline Hatch were honored on Dec. 8, during the annual Senior Jubilee Celebration. They were joined by the General Council, including Sister Dawn Tomaszewski, Sister Lisa Stallings, Sister Mary Beth Klingel, Sister Jeanne Hagelskamp and Sister Jenny Howard. Not pictured: 70-year Jubilarians Sister Adelaide Ortegel and Sister Marie Brendan Harvey.

70-year Jubilarians

Sister Mary Maxine Teipen is a native of Indianapolis. Currently, she ministers in residential services at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

Sister Mary Maxine entered the Congregation on Feb. 2, 1946, from St. Roch, Indianapolis. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1953.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. She earned a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Notre Dame, and another master’s degree in theological studies from the Catholic Theological Union.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Fort Wayne: Teacher, St. Patrick (1953-59),
  • Hammond: Teacher, Principal Superior, All Saints (1959-65),
  • Clarksville: Teacher, Our Lady of Providence High School (1965-69),
  • Indianapolis: Provincial Treasurer, St. Gabriel Province House (1969-70),
  • Indianapolis: Province, St. Gabriel Province House (1970-78),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: First Councilor/General Administration for Sisters of Providence (1981-91),
  • Indianapolis: Alumnae(i) Relations Manager, Office of Congregational Advancement for Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indianapolis office (1992-2001),
  • Indianapolis: Ministry to the Elderly (2001-12), and
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Volunteer, Providence Center and Woods Day Care, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods (2012-14).

Sister Mary Maxine has also ministered in Illinois and Kentucky.

Sister Adelaide Ortegel

Sister Adelaide Ortegel is a native of Chicago. Currently, she ministers in prayer at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

Sister Adelaide entered the Congregation on July 19, 1946, from St. Francis Xavier, Wilmette, Ill. She professed perpetual vows on Jan. 23, 1954.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in art. She earned a master’s degree in art education from the University of Illinois.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Fort Wayne: Teacher, St. John the Baptist (1954-57),
  • Lafayette: Teacher, St. Mary (1974-78),
  • Indianapolis: Artistic Resource/Campus Ministry, Providence Cristo Rey High School (2007-10),
  • Indianapolis: Artist/Puppeteer (2010-11),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Resident Artist/Puppeteer (2011-12), and
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Resident Artist/Puppeteer/Prayer (2012-15).

Sister Adelaide has also ministered in Illinois, Oklahoma, Massachusetts and the West Indies.

Sister Marie Brendan Harvey
Sister Marie Brendan Harvey

Sister Marie Brendan Harvey is a native of Chicago. Currently, she ministers as the moderator of Providence High School Alumnae, Eagle River, Wis.

Sister Marie Brendan entered the Congregation on Feb. 2, 1946, from St. Angela, Chicago. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1953.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in music. She earned a master’s degree in music from Catholic University of America.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Terre Haute: Teacher, St. Benedict (1948-49),
  • Vincennes: Teacher, St. Rose (1952-53),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Teacher, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (1954-69),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Teacher, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (1970-72), and
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Director of Alumnae Affairs, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (1973-82).

Sister Marie Brendan has also ministered in Montana, Michigan, Illinois and Wisconsin.

Sister Margaret Ann Wilson is a native of Oklahoma City, Okla. Currently, she ministers as a companion/outpatient assistant at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

Sister Margaret Ann, formerly Sister Ann Gerard, entered the Congregation on Jan. 9, 1946, from Corpus Christi, Oklahoma City, Okla. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1953.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She earned her master’s degree in elementary education from Indiana State University.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Teacher, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods Village School (1953-54),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Infirmary Nurse (1954-62), and
  • Terre Haute: EMH, Cara School (1971-73).

Sister Margaret Ann has also ministered in Illinois and Oklahoma.

Sister Mary Lois Hennel is a native of Evansville. Currently, she ministers in residential services and volunteerism at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

Sister Mary Lois entered the Congregation on July 21, 1946, from St. Mary, Evansville. She professed perpetual vows on Jan. 23, 1954.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She earned her master’s degree in education from Indiana State University.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • New Castle: Teacher, St. Anne (1954),
  • Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Joseph (1963-65),
  • Jasper: Teacher, St. Joseph (1965-69),
  • Evansville: Teacher, Sacred Heart (1969-70),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Treasury (1970-75),
  • Indianapolis: Assistant Secretary Treasurer, St. Gabriel Province (1975-76),
  • Indianapolis: Province Staff, St. Gabriel Province (1976-78),
  • Indianapolis: Bookkeeper, Continental Convalescent Center (1978-79),
  • Indianapolis: Bookkeeper/Secretary, Continental Convalescent Center (1979-80),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Assistant to Business Manager/Motherhouse Operations (1980-82),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Payroll Accountant Plant Business Office (1982-84),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Finance Clerk/Cashier, Central Business Office (1994-96), and
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Staff, Central Business Office (1996-2002).

Sister Mary Lois has also ministered in New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Illinois and California.

Sister Anita Bechert is a native of Indianapolis. Currently, she ministers in prayer at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

Sister Anita entered the Congregation on Feb. 2, 1946, from St. John, Indianapolis. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1953.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She earned a master’s degree in elementary education from Indiana State University.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Whiting: Teacher, St. John the Baptist (1953-57),
  • Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Andrew (1961-65),
  • New Albany: Teacher/Principal Superior, Holy Trinity (1965-69),
  • Fort Wayne: Teacher, St. John (1973-75),
  • Whiting: Teacher, St. John the Baptist (1975-79),
  • Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Luke (1979-84),
  • Indianapolis: Computer Center Coordinator/Administrative Assistant/Teacher, St. Luke (1984-85),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Generalate Staff/Office of Records (1991-92),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Director of Office of Records (1992-94), and
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Supervisor of Office of Records (1994-2007).

Sister Anita has also ministered in Maryland, Illinois and California.

Sister Joanne Cullins is a native of New Albany. Currently, she ministers as a volunteer receptionist at Providence Self Sufficiency Ministries, Georgetown, Ind.

Sister Joanne, formerly Sister Timothy, entered the Congregation on Jan. 9, 1946, from Holy Trinity, New Albany. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1953.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She earned a master’s degree in education from Indiana State University.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Hammond: Teacher, All Saints (1953-57),
  • Fort Wayne: Teacher, St. John the Baptist (1957-61),
  • Sellersburg: Teacher, St. Paul (1961-63),
  • Terre Haute: Teacher, St. Benedict (1963-70),
  • New Albany: Teacher, Holy Family (1970-90),
  • New Albany: Receptionist, Providence Retirement Home (1990-91),
  • New Albany: Social Services Designee, Providence Retirement Home (1991-94),
  • New Albany: Director of Adult Education, Providence Self Sufficiency Program (1994-2003),
  • Georgetown: Director of Adult Education, Providence Place (2003-07), and
  • Georgetown: Director of Adult Education and Receptionist, Providence Self Sufficiency Ministries (2007-08).

Sister Joanne has also ministered in Illinois and Maryland.

Sister Marie Alexis Geiger is a native of Loogootee. Currently, she ministers in prayer at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

Sister Marie Alexis entered the Congregation on Feb. 2, 1946, from St. Patrick, Indianapolis. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1953.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Vincennes: Teacher, St. John (1950-53),
  • Terre Haute: Teacher, Sacred Heart (1953-54),
  • New Castle: Teacher, St. Ann (1954-56),
  • Jasper: Teacher/Principal, Precious Blood (1963-69),
  • Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Simon (1969-70),
  • Indianapolis: Principal, Immaculate Heart (1970-76),
  • Indianapolis: Principal, St. Simon (1976-81),
  • Indianapolis: Principal, Holy Spirit (1981-89),
  • Indianapolis: Teacher, Dean of Junior High Discipline, Indianapolis Ritter Junior-Senior High School (1989-91),
  • Indianapolis: Junior High Coordinator/Teacher, Indianapolis Ritter Junior-Senior High School (1991-98),
  • West Terre Haute: Coordinator, Educational Family Services, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods (1999-2007), and
  • West Terre Haute: Volunteer, Providence Food Pantry (2007-12).

Sister Marie Alexis has also ministered in Illinois and Washington D.C.

Sister Adele Beacham is a native of Toronto, Canada. Currently, she ministers in residential services and volunteerism at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

Sister Adele, formerly Sister Joseph Therese, entered the Congregation on July 22, 1946, from Holy Angels, Dayton, Ohio. She professed perpetual vows on Jan. 23, 1954.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She earned a master’s degree in reading from Cardinal Stritch University, and another master’s degree in theological studies from St. Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Anthony (1949-50),
  • Fort Wayne: Teacher, St. John the Baptist (1961-64),
  • Fort Wayne: Principal, St. John the Baptist (1964-69),
  • Indianapolis: School Supervisor, Archdiocese of Indianapolis (1969-72),
  • Indianapolis: Principal, Holy Cross Central (1972-79),
  • New Castle: Religion Educator/Parish Minster, St. Anne/St. Elizabeth (1979-80),
  • New Castle: Pastoral Associate, St. Anne Parish (1980-82),
  • Syracuse: Pastoral Associate, St. Martin de Porres Parish (1982-87),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Director of Development (1987-90),
  • Evansville: Pastoral Associate, St. Anthony Parish (1990-93),
  • Terre Haute: Director of Religious Education, Sacred Heart Parish (1993-98),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Volunteer (1998-2001),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Wellness Ministry Staff (2001-02),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Ministry of Care volunteer (202-06), and
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Volunteer (2006-15).

Sister Adele has also ministered in Illinois.

Sister Lois Ann Stoiber is a native of Joliet, Ill. Currently, she ministers in convent service at the Mother Theodore Guerin Convent, River Grove, Ill.

Sister Lois Ann entered the Congregation on Feb. 2, 1946, from St. Mary Carmelite, Joliet, Ill. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1953.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She earned a master’s degree in education from Illinois State University.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Fort Wayne: Teacher, St. John the Baptist (1948-52),
  • Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Patrick (1952-53), and
  • Fort Wayne: Teacher, St. Jude (1953-58).

Sister Lois Ann has also ministered in Illinois.

Sister Caroline Hatch is a native of Hingham, Mass. Currently, she ministers in prayer in South Boston.

Sister Caroline, formerly Sister Mary Caroline, entered the Congregation on July 22, 1946, from St. Paul, Hingham, Mass. She professed perpetual vows on Jan. 23, 1954.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She earned a master’s degree in education from Indiana State University.

Sister Caroline has ministered in Illinois, Massachusetts and New Hampshire.

Sister Mary Mark Dede is a native of Terre Haute. Currently, she ministers as a volunteer at St. Francis Hospital, Indianapolis.

Sister Mary Mark entered the Congregation on Jan. 13, 1946, from St. Ann, Terre Haute. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1953.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She earned her master’s degree in education from Indiana State University.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Fort Wayne: Teacher, Cathedral High School (1952-53),
  • New Albany: Teacher, Holy Family (1960-65),
  • Terre Haute: Teacher, St. Margaret Mary (1965-68),
  • West Terre Haute: Teacher, St. Leonard (1968-69),
  • Terre Haute: Teacher, St. Patrick (1969-72),
  • Terre Haute: Teacher, St. Margaret Mary (1972-73),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Development Office (1988-90), and
  • Terre Haute: Teacher, Sacred Heart School (1990-91),

Sister Mary Mark has also ministered in Illinois, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Maryland, California and Florida.

Sisters of Providence 75-year Jubilarians Sister Marie David Schroeder (second in front), along with Sister Eileen Clare Goetzen (third in front) and Sister Agnes Eugene Cordak (front, far right) were honored on Dec. 8, during the annual Senior Jubilee Celebration. They were joined by the General Council, including Sister Mary Beth Klingel (front, left), Sister Dawn Tomaszewski (back, from left), Sister Lisa Stallings, Sister Jeanne Hagelskamp, and Sister Jenny Howard.
Sisters of Providence 75-year Jubilarians Sister Marie David Schroeder (second in front), along with Sister Eileen Clare Goetzen (third in front) and Sister Agnes Eugene Cordak (front, far right) were honored on Dec. 8, during the annual Senior Jubilee Celebration. They were joined by the General Council, including Sister Mary Beth Klingel (front, left), Sister Dawn Tomaszewski (back, from left), Sister Lisa Stallings, Sister Jeanne Hagelskamp, and Sister Jenny Howard.

75-year Jubilarians

Sister Eileen Clare Goetzen is a native of Chicago. Currently, she ministers in prayer at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

Sister Eileen Clare entered the Congregation on July 22, 1941, from St. Genevieve, Chicago. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1949.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in social studies. She earned a master’s degree in education from Indiana University.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Teacher, Aspirancy (1961-62), and
  • Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Agnes Academy (1962-66).

Sister Eileen Clare has also ministered in Illinois, Texas and Washington D.C.

Sister Marie David Schroeder is a native of Jasper. Currently, she ministers in residential services at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

Sister Marie David entered the Congregation on Jan. 5, 1941, from St. Joseph, Jasper. She professed perpetual vows on Jan. 23, 1949.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She earned a master’s degree in education from Indiana State University.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Fort Wayne: Teacher, St. Patrick (1947-48),
  • Fort Wayne: Teacher, ST. Jude (1949-51),
  • Evansville: Teacher, Assumption (1952-54),
  • Terre Haute: Teacher, St. Benedict (1957-59),
  • Evansville: Teacher, Good Shepherd (1959-62),
  • Jasper: Teacher, St. Joseph (1965-66),
  • Vincennes: Teacher, St. John (1966-69),
  • Fort Wayne: Teacher, St. John the Baptist (1969-71),
  • New Albany: Teacher, Catholic Central (1971-72),
  • Whiting: Teacher, Sacred Heart (1973-81),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Assistant Provincial Medicare Service SHP (1988-89),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Medicare, Central Business Office (1989-92), and
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Sisters of Providence Gift Shop (1993-2004).

Sister Marie David has also ministered in Illinois and California.

Sister Agnes Eugene Cordak is a native of Chicago. Currently, she ministers in prayer at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

Sister Agnes Eugene entered the Congregation on Sept. 14, 1941, from Maternity BVM, Chicago. She professed perpetual vows on Jan. 23, 1950.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She also earned master’s degrees from Indiana State University in education and history.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Richmond: Teacher, St. Mary (1946-48),
  • Hammond: Teacher, St. Joseph (1950-52),
  • Terre Haute: Teacher, ST. Ann (1954-55),
  • Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Andrew (1955-56),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Sacristan Local Treasurer Providence (1968-70),
  • Terre Haute: Teacher, Gibault Home for Boys (1971-72),
  • Terre Haute: Teacher, Terre Haute Schulte High School (1972-73),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Infirmary Aide/Driver (1973-77),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Driver (1981-82),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Manager/Buyer of Personal Supplies (1982-84),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Coordinator of Transportation/Buyer, Manager of Supplies (1984-86),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Gerontology Program (1986),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Sisters of Providence Gift Shop (1997-98),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Resource Center Staff (1999-2001),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Coordinator of Transportation (2001),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Resource Center Staff (2001-05), and
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Residential Services (2005-11).

Sister Agnes Eugene has also ministered in Washington D.C., and Illinois.

Sisters of Providence 80-year Jubilarians Sister Charles Ellen Turk (front, middle) and Sister Mary Michael Lager (front, right) were honored on Dec. 8, during the annual Senior Jubilee Celebration. They were joined by the General Council, including Sister Mary Beth Klingel (front, left), Sister Dawn Tomaszewski (back, from left), Sister Jeanne Hagelskamp, Sister Lisa Stallings and Sister Jenny Howard.
Sisters of Providence 80-year Jubilarians Sister Charles Ellen Turk (front, middle) and Sister Mary Michael Lager (front, right) were honored on Dec. 8, during the annual Senior Jubilee Celebration. They were joined by the General Council, including Sister Mary Beth Klingel (front, left), Sister Dawn Tomaszewski (back, from left), Sister Jeanne Hagelskamp, Sister Lisa Stallings and Sister Jenny Howard.

80-year Jubilarians

Sister Charles Ellen Turk is a native of Washington, Ind. Currently, she ministers in prayer at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

Sister Charles Ellen entered the Congregation on Jan. 11, 1936, from St. Mary, Washington, Ind. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1944.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She earned a master’s degree in mathematics from Indiana State University.

Her Indiana ministries include:

  • Indianapolis: Teacher/Principal, St. Ann (1950-55),
  • Indianapolis: Teacher/Principal, St. Matthew (1958-61),
  • Indianapolis: Teacher, Ladywood-St. Agnes (1973-75),
  • Indianapolis: Guidance Director, Ladywood-St. Agnes (1975-76),
  • Indianapolis: Guidance Director, Roncalli High School (1976-78),
  • Indianapolis: Guidance Director/Assistant Principal, Roncalli High School (1978-85),
  • Indianapolis: St. Gabriel Province Treasurer, St. Jude Convent (1985-89),
  • Indianapolis: Convent Administrator/Province Health Assistant, St. Jude Convent (1989-92),
  • Indianapolis: Area Assistant-Holistic Health Care (1992-97), and
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Residential Services Staff (1998-2008).

Sister Charles Ellen has also ministered in Illinois and Missouri.

Sister Mary Michael Lager is a native of New Orleans, La. Currently, she ministers in prayer at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

Sister Mary Michael entered the Congregation on July 16, 1936, from St. Boniface, Germantown, Ill. She professed perpetual vows on Jan. 23, 1945.

She graduated from Purdue University with a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy.

Her Indiana ministries included:

  • Indianapolis: Teacher, Cathedral Grade School (1939-41),
  • Indianapolis: Teacher, St. Patrick (1945-48),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Pharmacist/Lab/X-Ray, Teacher, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (1953-60),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Pharmacist/Lab/X-Ray/Nurse Aide (1960-62),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Pharmacist/X-Ray/Nurse Aide (1962-71),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Pharmacist/X-Ray (1971-73),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Pharmacist/Driver (1973-75),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Pharmacist (1975-90),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Office Staff, Office of Congregational Advancement (1991-96),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Staff, Office of Congregational Advancement (1996-97),
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods: Residential Services Staff (1997-2004).

Sister Mary Michael has also ministered in Illinois.

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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Jason Moon

Jason Moon

Jason Moon serves as media relations manager for the Sisters of Providence. Previously, he spent more than 16 years in the newspaper industry.