By The Rev. Amanda Burke
During the Synod Assembly, we watched a touching video about generosity. The Rev. Michael Price, pastor of Christus Victor Lutheran Church in Columbia, led us through the humble beginnings of their Pickle Jar ministry. The idea centers around a jar that people donate small amounts to for those who find themselves “in a pickle.”
Rev. Price spoke about how this has been especially useful in teaching children the concepts of giving and stewardship. In the woods behind Christus Victor, there have been encampments of people that are unhoused. As ministry and other activities went on with the congregation, their children would see and observe encounters with people who were in dire need of assistance. The children are able to see firsthand how the generosity of people, in something as simple as a pickle jar, can lead to truly making a difference in the life of someone in their community.
The congregation is leading through examples of generosity and stewardship. Toward the end of the video, Rev. Price shared this valuable thought, “Teach your kids, because usually when you are teaching, you, yourself, are probably learning it best.” We all have room to learn more about being good stewards of what God has blessed us with. Thank you Christus Victor for sharing this peek into your ministry.
