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ISM Faithful Service Recognition

Honoring Those Who Serve Christ Quietly, Humbly, and Faithfully

 

1. Official Award Description

ISM Faithful Service Recognition

The ISM Faithful Service Recognition honors clergy and laity within the Independent Sacramental Movement who embody the heart of Christian ministry through humble service, compassion, integrity, and steadfast dedication.

This recognition celebrates individuals who may not seek attention or acclaim, but whose ministries reflect the Gospel in powerful and transformative ways—through sacramental presence, pastoral care, outreach to the marginalized, community building, and hidden acts of love.

The award affirms:

• Christ-centered ministry

• devotion to the sacraments

• service to the poor and forgotten

• compassion in challenging contexts

• perseverance without recognition

• commitment to unity and integrity in the ISM

 

Each year, the movement highlights one or more individuals whose work exemplifies the “faithful service” that sustains and enriches our communities.

 

Recipients receive:

• a certificate of recognition

• a featured profile on the ISM Heroes page

• official listing on the ISM website

• the gratitude of the wider movement

The ISM Faithful Service Recognition is not tied to rank or jurisdiction. It is open to anyone—clergy or lay—whose life and ministry bear witness to Christ’s love.

 

2. Nomination Guidelines

Nominations are welcome from:

• clergy (bishops, priests, deacons)

• laity

• parish communities

• chaplaincy organizations

• ecumenical partners

• anyone who has witnessed the nominee’s ministry firsthand

 

How to Nominate

Nominations should include:

1. Nominee’s Name and Role
   (Clergy status or lay ministry role)

2. Jurisdiction or Community
   (If applicable—optional for privacy)

3. Description of Ministry (500–1,000 words)
   A clear narrative of the nominee’s ministry, including:

   • their primary service or outreach

   • examples of faithful, compassionate, or sacrificial service

   • stories or moments illustrating their pastoral heart

   • how their work embodies the values of the ISM

4. Contact Information for the Nominator
   So that clarifications can be made if needed.

5. Optional Materials

   • photos

   • links to ministry websites

   • statements from those impacted by the nominee’s service

 

Submission Method

Nominations may be submitted via:

• email: hopeagainsthopetoday@gmail.com

There is no limit to the number of nominations a person may submit.

 

3. Award Criteria

Nominees should embody one or more of the following:

A. Faithful, Consistent Service

• demonstrates steady dedication to ministry

• supports the spiritual and pastoral needs of others

• lives out their vocation with integrity and humility

B. Compassion Toward the Marginalized

• cares for the homeless, sick, imprisoned, refugees, the homebound, or the forgotten

• models the compassion of Christ through presence and accompaniment

C. Sacramental Presence

• celebrates or supports the sacraments with reverence

• ensures access to sacramental care for those who lack it

D. Commitment to Community Building

• fosters healthy relationships, church communities, or ministries

• strengthens unity within or across jurisdictions

E. Hidden or Unrecognized Service

• engages in quiet, behind-the-scenes ministry

• embodies “faithfulness in small things”

F. Contribution to the Mission of the ISM

• evangelization, catechesis, outreach, pastoral care, or theological leadership

• supports the credibility and integrity of the movement as a whole

G. Personal Virtues

• humility

• compassion

• pastoral wisdom

• openness to ongoing conversion and learning

• integrity in personal and vocational life

No nominee is expected to embody all criteria; these guidelines simply reflect the spirit of the recognition.