Ever wonder what a Mite Can is? For those who are not familiar with this tradition, it may seem like a strange name. A Google search brings up dozens of pest control websites and products!
So why do we call it a Mite Can? More commonly in a box, the Mite Can hearkens back to the story of the “Widow’s Mite,” as it is titled in the King James Version, from the Gospel according to Luke:
And he looked up, and saw the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury. And he saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites. And he said, ‘Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all: For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had.’ (Luke 21:1-4)
The story of the Widow’s Mite reminds us to give our very best to the Lord, and that even very small offerings are worth a great deal. During the penitential season of Lent, we are called to examine our hearts and renew our focus on God. When we put out a Mite Can on our kitchen counter or dinner table and begin to fill them with coins and bills, we are reminded daily to give God our very best; not just financially, but in all areas of our lives. In the process, each member of our church family – whether rich or poor, young or old – is able to join in community with their small financial offering and make a significant difference.
The Mite Can Outreach project will once again support our child sponsorship of Diana at Vida Joven de México.
Join us in the Parish Hall at 9:15 am this Sunday, March 5th to decorate a label for your Mite Can! We will also hear more about the ministry work of Vida Joven directly from parishioners who have experienced life at the orphanage.
Written by Becky Gleason, Children’s Minister.
Photo: “The Widow’s Mite“; oil painting; 1876; João Zeferino da Costa
