Red leaves on a frosty tree

Stories about

Sisters in Ministry

Our Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods are passionate about serving God by caring for all God’s creation, especially those most in need. We serve in many ways, from education to social justice, parish ministry, hospital ministry, serving the economically poor, advocating for immigrants and for a healthy environment. Read how some of our sisters serve God and others through their ministries.

Sister Dorothy Gartland: neighborhood ministry making a difference

Fifteen of the best years of my life as a Sister of Providence were spent working as program director/supervisor of the after school homework program at Providence Family Services (PFS). I’ve had a wonderful life and maybe I’m a bit nostalgic, but truly Providence Family Services was and is an important part of our West Humboldt Park neighborhood here in Chicago.

Cards and Christmas carols

So Advent has arrived. There is a lovely Advent wreath in the chapel and another in the church. To my surprise, the novices don't know "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel." The prominent Advent song here seems to be "O Come, Divine Messiah," which they sing quite slowly. I taught the novices "Stay Awake, Be Ready," a children's Advent song that includes some clapping. I invite you to look it up and make a joyful noise.

Walking with Providence Associate brings burst of energy

“Because she’s so outgoing and so enthusiastic, I think she’s helped me recapture some of that enthusiasm for the Woods. And her spirituality too. Sometimes it’s easy when you go about your day, it gets kind of humdrum. But when somebody gets super excited, which she does, it’s contagious. It just awakens you,” says Sister Peggy Nau of her experience as a companion to Providence Associate candidate Jane Fischer over the past year.

Sisters Lucy and Mary Fran cook up a good time

“We prepare about 30 pounds of meat. The pulled pork sandwiches are complemented by a great horseradish coleslaw which Sister Lucy takes pride in making.”

Sisters Lucy Nolan and Mary Fran Keusal lovingly feed the volunteers and shoppers at the annual Providence Family Services rummage sale, held this year Oct. 4-5 in Chicago. They share their experience and even their recipe here.