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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 Kathleen Desautels: Collaborating for justice

For nearly three decades, Sister Kathleen Desautels (formerly Sister Mary Colleen) has been at the forefront of justice.

The rape and murder of four church women in El Salvador in 1980 was also part of her transformation. She spent time in Bolivia and in Nicaragua – witnessing social injustices – before finding her way to 8th Day Center for Justice in Chicago.

Sister Mary Tomlinson: life changing experience from a Sisters of Providence Come and See weekend

In this video clip, Sister of Providence Mary Tomlinson shares her experience at a Sister of Providence Come and See weekend, which proved life changing in her decision to enter the Congregation. Watch the clip, share the clip, and consider attending or recommending to someone you love the upcoming free Come and See weekend April 11-13 at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

A change of habit for Sister Marilyn Baker

In this video clip Sister Marilyn Baker shares her story of transitioning from the religious habit to common clothes. "I loved my habit," she shares. But she transitioned with the community as they were asked to be more a part of the modern world. Even without an outward garment, there is just something different about women religious, Sister Marilyn says. "She is identified by the work she does, by the ministry she does, by the fact that people can recognize God through her. And that, to me, that is the habit," she says. See the full clip below.