Prayer Into Action

Prayer Into Action is a series of inspirational stories published by the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM). Many people connect in today’s story and the "IHM Spirit" runs through it. It shows how small actions and prayer produce a ripple effect that makes good things happen.

This story starts with a young woman named Courtney…

“I always had a civic mindset, but working with the Sisters made it clear how important it is to serve others and what is possible if we work together.” That’s how Courtney Comonie Fino describes her service trips* with the Sisters of IHM in her teens. It was on these trips that she learned more about the IHM Mission and Core Values -- rejoicing in the redeeming love of Jesus Christ and committing to share in his redeeming mission through a life rooted in God, Community, Justice Respect for Diversity, and Wholeness. In addition, the Sisters stressed the importance of caring for the Earth. She credits these lessons with influencing her career choice. Today, she is an environmental science teacher. She also continues to serve the community in many ways, especially through membership in the Junior League of Scranton.

It continued with a project to help persons experiencing homelessness...

This year, the Junior League of Scranton decided to collect personal care products for persons experiencing homeless in the region served by the Keystone Mission. Courtney asked her mother, IHM Human Resources Director Cathy Comonie, to help distribute flyers at the IHM Center and Our Lady of Peace Residence. Posters were put up about the collection, along with collection boxes. The timing was perfect, as the Sisters had recently met with Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti. The Mayor had asked for prayers for the growing number of individuals experiencing homeless in the area. In addition to their continued prayers, the Sisters and staff of IHM generously donated items for those who are homeless. (Pictured at right, members of the Junior League discuss donations with Keystone Mission staff.)

Participation grew...

Sister Ann Monica Bubser, IHM (pictured with Courtney) saw the flyer and collection boxes and called her local dentist to see if she could help with donations. In addition, the Sisters of IHM Foundation Board learned about the project in a discussion of community engagement and added their support. Board members contacted other dentists and Benco Dental. Benco made a large donation of dental products for the cause.

Combining prayer and one small action can make a big difference!

“I wish you could have seen the faces of the clients at Keystone when the donation was brought in,” Courtney adds. “This one act of kindness made such an incredible difference for them!”

It is amazing how God, through the Holy Spirit, helps bring all the pieces together to give assistance where it is most needed to create positive change.

Today and every day, please take a moment to reflect on your ability to make a difference in some small way.

Help create a more just and compassionate world.

Turn Your Prayers into Action!

Help us put prayer into action. Give to IHM Sisters and our missions today!