Sisters of Providence with ties to diocese celebrating Jubilees

Two Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods with ties to the Diocese of Corpus Christi are celebrating jubilees this year. Sister Eileen Clare Goetzen is celebrating 75 years in consecrated life, while Sister Maureen Abbott is a 60-year jubilarian. They are among 34 members of the Indiana order who are celebrating Jubilees this year.

Sister Maureen, served as director of ministries at the Pastoral Institute in the Diocese of Corpus Christi between 1983-84, and vicar of education between 1984-88. Sister Maureen entered the Congregation on July 22, 1956, from St. John in Robstown. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1964.

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She earned a master’s degree in education administration from the University of Washington, and another master’s degree in theology from the University of Notre Dame. Currently, she ministers as the community historian for the Sisters of Providence.

Sister Eileen Clare was a teacher at St. John in Robstown from 1949-55.  The Chicago native currently ministers in prayer at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

Sister Eileen Clare entered the congregation on July 22, 1941, from St. Genevieve, Chicago. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 15, 1949. 

She graduated from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a bachelor’s degree in social studies. She earned her master’s degree in education from Indiana University.