- 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 Sharon is a native of Owosso, Michigan. Currently, she ministers as a volunteer in Lockport, Illinois.
Sister Sharon, formerly Sister Charlene, entered the Congregation on February 2, 1957, from Our Lady Queen of Martyrs, Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She also earned a master’s degree in education from Marygrove College, Detroit, Michigan.
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Sister Sharon is featured in the following content on the Sisters of Providence website:
Photographs
Click images to view larger.

Providence Associate Nancy Dannels walks the grounds of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods with Sister Sharon Richards.

Sisters of Providence 60-year Jubilarians along with General Councilors included (front, from left) General Councilor Sister Jeanne Hagelskamp, Sisters Janet Gilligan, Carol Lindly, Carol Meyers and General Councilor Sister Mary Beth Klingel. (Back) General Councilor Sister Lisa Stallings, Sister Arlene Knarzer, General Councilor Sister Jenny Howard, Sisters Mary Catherine Keene and Susanne Gallagher, General Superior Sister Dawn Tomaszewski, Sister Elizabeth Smigla and Sister Sharon Richards.