
- 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

Providence Spirituality
“The God of Providence carries the entire mystery of the divine, ever trustworthy, never failing. The God of Providence offers all the possibilities for ourselves and the world, including both what God wants to happen and what God is willing to let happen because God honors the gift of human freedom. The choices are ours — truly free, but ever grounded in the grace of God, the Holy Mystery of Providence, about which there is ever more to be discovered.” – Sister Ruth Eileen Dwyer

It all starts with falling in love with God
When a person is called to be a Sister of Providence, and responds to that call, beautiful things happen. The sister has time to really focus on and grow in God. She is led to look deeply at herself and grow in ways she never thought possible.

May 21, 2023: Seventh Sunday of Easter (Solemnity of the Ascension)
'This is our mission too. We must teach the love of God to all.'

So many ways of honoring Mary at the Woods
Mary’s own words in her Magnificat provide some answer: “from now on all generations will call me blessed.” We gather precisely because we are part of the present generation who wishes to call her blessed.

May 14, 2023: Sixth Sunday of Easter
'Jesus tells us tht if we love him we will keep his commandments.'

Providence Associate and former Sister of Providence Donna Watzke shares about her journey
I was a Sister of Providence for 33 years. For me, being a Sister of Providence was a transformative experience.

May 7, 2023: Fifth Sunday of Easter
'Even a pleasant smile or a friendly word to a stranger can have a result beyond anything we could imagine.'

Reflecting on the profession of vows of Sister Anna Fan
'And we stand with you, Anna, as you continue to follow the path of Providence, as you continue to surrender and trust that God will make a miracle in your life.'

Sister Carolyn Bouchard’s woodshop: a place of creativity and prayer
“Woodworking is a kind of metaphor for ways I have always sought out and found God,” Sister Carolyn said. “What I do with wood I have done in many other ways throughout my personal and ministerial life."

Moving toward the Reign of God with mutual sharing
As disciples of Jesus, the Sisters of Providence endeavor to build a community that reflects these Gospel values. We follow Jesus’ example by communally organizing ourselves so that everyone receives what they need and contributes what they can.

Former Sisters of Providence a gift to the Church and society
Former sisters are living evidence of the unexpected gifts those who have been immersed in the Providence Community take with them wherever they go.

Sister Barbara Battista featured in Newsweek
“I’m a Catholic Nun. I’m standing up for trans people.” — Sister Barbara Battista Click here to read this column written by Sister Barbara which is featured in Newsweek.

Plan to join us for our Volunteer Open House!
The open house is a great opportunity for those who have not yet signed up to volunteer for the sisters
