The Poor Vicar’s alms basin

The next item in the Poor Vicar’s Sacristy in a Box is an alms basin.

There are countless items that could be used here. In small missions and parishes, one often sees a basket woven of wicker or reeds. I have been in some places where Tupperware was used; I won’t even go into details about the shoeboxes, bags, and hats I have seen. The poor vicar’s meager budget shouldn’t cause him to use something that is inferior. Maybe it will be entirely appropriate to pass the mitre when the bishop comes for a visit, but, in the meantime, here is something more useful.

This wooden bowl is available for $6.97 from Wal-Mart. It is plain in decoration, with a rich, dark finish. The diameter is 11 1/2″. On the bottom is a small carved pedestal, so that it sits slightly raised from a table. It is large enough to hold the entire contribution from a small parish. While not as beautiful as a brass or silver plate that would cost exponentially more, this bowl is of sufficient appearance and usefulness for the small congregation.

Poor Vicar’s Sacristy in a Box cost to date: $22.02

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