Welcome to Saint Mary-of-the-Woods

The Sisters of Providence invite you to discover our home.

The Woods (that's our nickname) is an extraordinary place. But don't take our word for it! Experience it for yourself.

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“… It looks like a little piece of Europe was plunked down in the backwoods of Indiana.”

Tommy Kleckner

Director, Western Regional Office for Indiana Landmarks

  • Shrine of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin

    Meet the woman who started it all and learn her amazing story.

  • Must See Places

    There's a lot to see and do. Be sure to visit these places first.

  • Sunday Brunch

    Sundays are meant for catching up around the dinner table. Let us do the cooking for you.

  • Shop, Eat, Stay

    No visit is complete without a stop at our stores and a bite to eat.

  • Alpacas & Agritourism

    Did you know we have a certified organic farm with alpacas, chickens and so much more?

  • Walk, Bike, Run, Roll & Stroll

    With miles of paved roads and paths, this is a perfect place to enjoy the outdoors and get your daily exercise.

  • History Buffs

    If you like history then you’ll want to see why we are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

You’ll find a variety of experiences here at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

Rooted in spirituality, it’s the perfect place to relax, reflect or pray. You can immerse yourself in our fascinating history and amazing architecture. Animal and nature lovers will discover an abundance of trees and plants as well as a variety of creatures such as alpacas and chickens. You can do a little shopping and stop for a bite to eat. All are welcome.

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Saint Mother Theodore Guerin

“We have gone out several times this summer to gather simples and linden blossoms, etc. In each excursion we discover something marvelous, beautiful, and useful in the magnificent forests of Indiana.”

Saint Mother Theodore Guerin

1798-1856, Foundress of the Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods

Guided Tours

Schedule a tour for your school, church groups, clubs and organizations.

Self-Guided Tours

Do you like to explore things on your own? We’ve got you covered. Download this walking tour PDF.

What's Nearby

There are a lot of great things in our area you won’t want to miss.

Directions & Hours Map

Let us help you find your way.

Mass

See times and information about Sunday and weekday services.

There’s always something going on at the Woods.

Check out our events, programs and workshops.

Upcoming events

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Saint Mother Theodore Guerin Feast Day

October 3 at 11:00 am EDT

Saint Mother Theodore Guerin was canonized by Pope Benedict XVI on Oct. 15, 2006

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Oct
7

Teen Volunteer Opportunity

Teens 12-18 are invited to volunteer with our elder Sisters of Providence to brighten their days. Join us!

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Oct
7

Monthly prayer with the Sisters of Providence

Pray each month by Zoom with the Sisters of Providence!

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Oct
10

Taizé Ecumenical Prayer Service at the Woods

Each Taizé service includes prayer, simple music, a time for silence and inspirational readings. Join us in person or via livestream on the second Tuesday of the month.

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Recent stories

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Sisters of Providence seek public input through survey

By Jason Moon

For Sister Lucy Lechner, it’s the little things

By Sister Corbin Hannah

Touched by the Woods for a lifetime

By Mike Cassell

St. Anne Shell Chapel needs restoration

By Amy Miranda

St. Anne Shell Chapel: holy ground

By Sister Janet Gilligan

Sisters to celebrate Foundation Day

By Jason Moon

Photo albums

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Hamming it up with the Earth Defenders.

Earth Day 2023
The Grinch and volunteer NaKea Anderson

Christmas Fun at the Woods 2022
Sister Barbara Bluntzer and friend.

Stories from the Saint Mary-of-the-Woods Historic District
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A walk in the Woods during social distancing
Christmas-Fun-at-the-Woods-_-Alpaca-2019-002-WEB

Christmas Fun at the Woods 2019
Fall-Farm-Day-_-alpacas-007-WEB

Fall Farm Day 2019
Brother and sister twinned with their tiger face paintings.

Earth Day 2019
Spring scenery WEB (10)

Spring 2019

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Upon their arrival, the firs thing Saint Mother Theodore and her postulates did was seek out a Log Cabin Chapel, which would serve as their very first "convent".

Get in touch

Use the form here to email us about tours, or you can contact us directly at 812-535-2925.

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