- 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
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Biography
Sister Mary Loyola Bender was born Anna Loyola on Oct. 13, 1917. She died on Aug. 15, 2016. She was 98 years old and had been a Sister of Providence for 77 years.
Sister Mary Loyola entered the Congregation on Feb. 2, 1939. She professed first and final vows on Aug. 15, 1914 and 1946, respectively.
Initially, she ministered as a teacher but then began a ministry of 23 years as Sacristan in the Church of the Immaculate Conception. She also ministered as the administrator at Providence Retirement Home in New Albany for 10 years and as the director of maintenance and employees at Immaculata in Washington, D.C.
Sister Mary Loyola was a gifted seamstress.
Obituary
Read more
Sister Mary Loyola is featured in the following content on the Sisters of Providence website:
- Remembering Sisters Mary Loyola Bender and Ann Kevin O’Connor
- Twenty-eight Sisters celebrate Jubilees
Photographs
Click images to view larger.
