
- About
-
-
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.
-
-
- Justice
-
-
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.
-
-
- Be inspired
-
-
What inspires you?
We all need a little spiritual inspiration sometimes. Let the wisdom of our Providence Community support you on your journey.
-
-
- Visit
-
-
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.
-
-
- Get involved
-
-
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.
-
-
- Join
-
-
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.
-
-
- Prayer Requests
- Contact us
- Donate
Biography
Sister Dorothy was born on October 29, 1929, in St. Joseph, Missouri, the day the stock market fell. Her family moved to Chicago after her father’s job was moved there.
Sister Dorothy, formerly Sister Margaret Eugene, entered the Congregation on February 2, 1948, professing first and final vows on August 15, 1950 and 1955, respectively.
She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She also has a master’s degree in elementary education from Indiana University.
Of her ministries, Sister Dorothy has taught at schools in Washington, D.C., Indiana and Illinois. She was principal at Assumption School in Evansville and at St. Joseph School in Hammond, both in Indiana, and spent 20 years teaching at Maternity BVM in Chicago. She was also a founding member of the 8th Day Center for Justice, also located in Chicago.
Currently, Sister Dorothy ministers in prayer at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.
She loves her Chicago White Sox, although she lives with Cubs’ fans. Sister Dorothy added her favorite food is shrimp.
Written by this sister
This sister has written content published on this website. Here is some recent content, or you can view her full author listing here.
Read more
Sister Dorothy is featured in the following content on the Sisters of Providence website:
- Oral History: Sister Dorothy Gartland
- The Sisters of Providence: A history of justice
- Sisters of Providence celebrate Senior Jubilees
- A reflection for the 2018 Senior Jubilee Celebration
- Celebrating 8th Day Center for Justice
- Providence Family Services Volunteer Sister Dorothy Gartland receives Guerin Outreach Ministries Leadership and Advocacy Award
- PFS volunteer brings love for justice, education to her work
Photographs
Click images to view larger.

