“The IHM Sisters are not afraid to get involved and pitch in. It’s their example and the way they challenge me not just to be good but to be better that draws me to their charism and mission.”
View slideshow of the IHM Sister-Associate Conference held June 22-24, 2012, at the IHM Center in Scranton.
Who are Associates?
IHM Associates are women and men from all states of life and various creeds who are seeking a deeper experience of God for their own transformation and for the transformation of the world. This distinct relationship with the Congregation of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary creates a mutual bond between the associates and the sisters that widens the circle of Jesus’ unconditional love for all.
What is IHM Associate Relationship?
It is not membership but it is a mutual relationship of vowed members of the congregation and lay women and men. At heart, the associate presence is recognized as the work of God’s creative spirit in the life of the congregation. The vowed members receive from the associates the wisdom of their faith stories, friendship and a new vision of co-creating the reign of God. At the same time, the sisters share the heritage of joyful participation in the redeeming love of Jesus, their spiritual tradition, hospitality, and friendship.
Why does one pursue this relationship?
“I long for something more.”
“I feel a hunger to grow spiritually with others.”
“I am hearing a call to a deeper self.”
“I was drawn by the bond that associates and sisters have through their spiritual connection.”
“I want to be connected with the IHM Sisters with whom I have experienced a gracious hospitality, a deep respect for each person, a prophetic community that celebrates diversity, and the prayer life that nourishes these graces.”
How can one respond to the call?
- Gather information by contacting the director
- Discern
- Apply
- Commit to personal prayer, informed reflection and faith sharing in a Circle of Grace.
What associates do:
- Maintain their individual lifestyles as they participate in the spirituality, life, and mission of the congregation.
- Choose to live the IHM Core Values in various ways while actively pursuing their spiritual growth.
- Nurture the bond among themselves and the sisters.
Associate Commissionings
