On December 13, 2024, Providence Village proudly celebrated its second annual Founders Day, marking the establishment of our founders, the Sisters of Providence of St. Vincent de Paul, in Kingston on December 13, 1861. As the congregation approaches fulfillment, Providence Village represents their final mission, a living testament to their unwavering commitment to compassionate service. This special day offers an opportunity to honour their remarkable legacy and reflect on the profound and lasting impact they have had on our local community and communities across Canada.
This year’s celebrations began with an open house at the Sisters’ Museum inside Providence Motherhouse, where Veronica Stienburg, Archivist for the Sisters of Providence of St. Vincent de Paul, welcomed visitors and answered questions about the congregation’s rich history. In the afternoon, attendees gathered for a special event and tea to further explore and celebrate the Sisters’ inspiring legacy.
Laurie French, President & CEO of Providence Village, opened the event by welcoming guests and introducing the Providence Village Board members in attendance. In her remarks, Laurie emphasized the importance of Founders Day, expressing deep gratitude for the Sisters’ vision and dedication, and congratulated the Sisters on their 163rd Foundation Day.
Sandra Carlton, a Providence Village Board member and Designate of our sponsor organization, the Catholic Health Sponsors of Ontario (CHSO), shared heartfelt stories from her time working alongside the Sisters at Providence Care, which was also founded by the Sisters. She reflected on their unwavering dedication to compassionate care that she witnessed throughout her career. “It is because of their unparalleled vision of creating a supportive community—a Village—that we are all here today to recognize and celebrate their contributions to our community,” Sandra said. “Now it is our turn to continue to build on their history by living Providence Village’s mission and values so that we can carry on their story.”
A highlight of the event was a presentation from Veronica on “The Life of a Sister,” which offered a glimpse into the journey of a Sister of Providence. Veronica shared how young women, feeling a vocation, would join the congregation, beginning as postulants and progressing through years of study, prayer, and service. She noted the changing roles of the Sisters over the decades, from educators and nurses to pastoral counsellors and justice advocates. Veronica also explained how each Sister’s life journey reflected the evolving needs of the times while remaining grounded in their mission of compassionate care.
“The journey of each Sister is unique,” Veronica shared, “but all are tied by a common thread: a profound dedication to serving others. From their early days as postulants cross-stitching samplers to learn how to mark their clothing to their later years as leaders in health care, education, and social justice, the Sisters have always adapted to meet the needs of the communities they serve.”
Veronica also highlighted the congregation’s innovative contributions, such as establishing teaching convents, managing nursing schools, and expanding into new ministries like group homes and retreat centres. Attendees were encouraged to explore these stories further, with Veronica pointing out the extensive archives available online and urging them to speak directly with the Sisters in attendance.
As Providence Village continues to grow, Founders Day serves as a reminder of the compassionate care and bold vision that the Sisters of Providence embody. Their legacy remains a guiding light for the Village’s mission to serve the community with the same selflessness and love.
Thank you to everyone who joined in celebrating Founders Day and to the staff and Board members who are committed to continuing the Sisters’ legacy. Together, we honour their story and carry forward their mission.