by Susan Bergman

When Catholic Social Services of the Miami Valley (CSSMV) launched the Lenten Love in Action campaign in 2023, their goal was simple: celebrate the good already happening in our neighborhoods and inspire even more of it. Seeing countless small acts of kindness quietly unfolding in schools, parishes, and ministries, they wanted to lift those stories up, honor the people behind them, and remind us that love, when lived out, becomes a powerful force that draws communities together.

The campaign began with the idea to amplify positive impact through social media. By tagging partners and shining light on their efforts, CSSMV set out to show what collective action can look like when it is guided by faith. But what started as a simple, intentional outreach has grown into something organic and deeply connected. Hope Gebhart, Marketing and Communications Coordinator for CSSMV, noted that the biggest shift has been momentum: “The first year, we were reaching out to gather stories. Now, people are coming to us, and community members mention the posts at events. It’s incredible to see the connections being made.”

Lenten Love in Action is rooted in one of the most challenging teachings from the Gospel of Luke, the parable of the Good Samaritan, a teaching that aligns with the core value of Beacons of Light. In the story, Jesus invites us to see every person as a neighbor and reminds us that mercy often requires stepping beyond comfort and expectation. The campaign lifts up modern expressions of this truth in students mentoring younger peers, parishes organizing donation drives, and ministries responding to hunger and hardship. These simple, quiet gestures reveal how holiness can unfold in everyday moments. “Love transcends barriers,” Gebhart shared. “Through the campaign we are able to witness that truth over and over.”

Throughout the 2025 Lenten season, countless stories revealed the vibrant diversity of service given across the region. Gebhart highlighted specific examples: the ongoing work of the Sisters of the Precious Blood, the Box of Love project at Holy Angels Catholic Church, and the Christ Child Society’s commitment to families and children. Each story is different, but together they paint a picture of people stepping forward for a shared purpose.

Students, in particular, have responded with enthusiasm and pride. Being featured in the campaign helps them see that their efforts, no matter how small, make a difference. For young people, these early experiences of service can shape a lifelong desire to lift others up. “They begin to understand that small acts of kindness can have a real impact,” Gebhart said. “It motivates them and affirms their gifts.”

That inspiration has carried outward. Schools, inspired by one another, began launching their own service projects. Deliveries to the CSSMV food pantry is one especially meaningful service given to CSSMV, as it operates the largest food pantry in the Dayton area, serving roughly 140 households every weekday.

Behind the scenes, the work of gathering these moments has become a ministry of its own. What once relied primarily on emails is now fueled by conversations, relationships, and social media posts that draw people closer to CSSMV’s mission. And unexpected partnerships often form, strengthening the network of care throughout the community.

Looking ahead, CSSMV hopes to expand Lenten Love in Action beyond the Lenten season. There is “so much good happening all year long,” said Gebhart, adding that the team is excited to explore new ways to celebrate service, deepen collaboration, and continue sharing stories that unite and inspire.

Asked what she would say to readers preparing their hearts for the Lenten season, Gebhart offered a gentle invitation: “Take a moment to reflect on the unique gifts God has given you and consider how one of those gifts could help someone else. Take action, and don’t be afraid to share your story. You will inspire others. Together, these small steps can spark a wave of goodness throughout our community.”

In a world hungry for hope, Lenten Love in Action continues to shine a warm and steady light, reminding us that kindness grows best when it is shared and that every act of love, no matter its size, carries the power to transform. To submit a service story, contact Hope Gebhart at [email protected] or visit the CSSMV’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

This article appeared in the February 2026 edition of The Catholic Telegraph Magazine. For your complimentary subscription, click here.