Readers Write: Cartoon captures message of giving

The Island Now

I have just seen a funny and quite a meaningful cartoon in the Brooklyn and Queens Diocese Catholic weekly newspaper known as The Tablet. 

The cartoonist is Bill Kresse and he depicted an usher collecting money for the parish and when he got to a small boy with his piggy bank he said, “Kevin, I’m sure the monsignor would appreciate it, however I think he can manage to repair the leak without you depleting your life’s savings!” 

Now as an usher and a member of the Knights of Columbus, I found a deeper meaning in this cartoon. 

In Mark, chapter 12 verse 44, Jesus saw a poor woman giving in just two small coins in the collection box in the temple, which represented all she had. Jesus than said about those who gave much, “For they have contributed from their surplus but she gave from her poverty.” 

Thanks Bill Kresse, for reminding us the reason for giving. 

For it is not how much we are able to give, but even what little we have to give – to do so out of love for those in need. 

For this little boy Kevin in the cartoon had felt a great need to help his parish. Now what greater love is there than that?

Frederick R. Bedell Jr.

Glen Oaks Village

Share this Article