Attention Ladies!
An exciting new Bible study is available online at lwml.org (Lutheran Women’s Missionary League). Once at the website, scroll down to YOUR STRONG SUIT on the right hand side. Click on the “learn more” link to access the video portion of this 8-week study. While there, check out all the other wonderful resources available. If you have any questions, contact Jeanette Hanson.
A Great Way to Start the Day! Is to read the daily Mustard Seed Devotion from LWML: food for the soul. The devotions are short, to the point, and apply to you. Sign up for the Mustard Seed devotionals at https://www.lwml.org/mustard-seed-devotions.
MITE BOX? WHAT IS IT?
HISTORY OF THE MITE BOX
Based on the Biblical account of the widow's mite (Luke 21:1-4), the Mite Box is intended for regular contributions of “mites” - offerings above and beyond the support given to congregations and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod (LCMS). Mite Box contributions amount to millions of dollars that fund district and national mission grants and implement the LWML goals.
Perhaps inspired by the various “cent” or “mite” societies of the early 1800s, the Woman's Mission to Woman (Baptist) urged members in its first circular letter in 1871 to use their new Mite Box to raise funds. The entire family was encouraged to contribute. The garnet colored paper box had an opening on the top and the words, “Woman's Mission to Woman,” in gold letters on the side.
Over the years, many Lutheran Ladies Aid societies used a box to gather funds in support of local and synod ministries. Under the original 1928 Lutheran Women's Missionary endeavor organizational plan, each woman in every congregation would receive a Mite Box if she participated in the Ladies Aid. Receipts from the 92 ladies Aid societies totaled $6,651.31 in 1930.
The Lutheran Women's Missionary League, formally recognized by the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod in 1942, required by the newly adopted constitution and bylaws that 25% of all missionary contributions be given to the national organization, shared from the districts.
The 1953 convention reaffirmed the policy of raising funds only through voluntary offerings. Leaguers were reminded to fill their boxes on a regular basis by:
- putting your pennies in the box at the end of each day;
- say “Thank you” with an appropriate amount whenever calamity or misfortune has been averted;
- empty all your loose change from your wallet into the box at the end of each week.
Throughout the decades, Lutheran women have stepped out in faith, setting goals and trusting God to move the hearts of His people to give generously to proclaim the Gospel.
At the LWML convention in June, a goal of $2,622,270 was approved by the delegates. These grants will fund 33 new missions.
PRAYER: O Lord, in Your infinite wisdom and boundless love, You have called us to love and serve one another as You have loved us. I come before You today, my heart open and ready to receive Your guidance and strength to fulfill this command. Teach me to love not just in words, but in action and in truth. Instill in me a heart that sees beyond the surface, recognizing the need, the hurt, and the longing in those around me. Grant me the courage to step out of my comfort zone, to serve others with humility and grace, reflecting Your love in every interaction. Amen.
