The Power of Mite


The OLA's blue mite boxes continue to play a big role almost sixty years after their introduction

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Sr. Martha Ahern returns after picking up mite boxes and other donations in Co. Galway

The first of the OLA’s blue mite boxes were placed on shop counters across the island of Ireland in the late 1950’s. Almost 60 years later the boxes continue to hold pride of place on hundreds of shop counters.  The term mite comes from an event witnessed by Jesus and became known as the widow’s offering:

“Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on”  Mark 12:43-44.

Over the past six decades, OLA Sisters have taken their turn criss-crossing the country emptying the mite boxes. At present, Srs. Martha Ahern, Julie Doran and Eithna Synott manage the boxes. While the original aim of the mite box was to raise funds for the mission work of the OLA Sisters, a second purpose has developed over the years. Sr. Martha explained that the pastoral side today is also very important.  “We build up a relationship with the people looking after the mite boxes in each area. We visit each area at a set time each year and get to know them over time. They sometimes may share about their life and they appreciate the visit and our prayers."

In advance of the visit to empty the mite box, some shop owners would collect some clothes and toys which are then distributed in Africa. Speaking as she emptied the car, Sr. Martha showed off some of the latest donations: “I’ve just returned from a shop in a rural area. The lady there had been busy knitting over the winter. She handed me 3 full bags of hats and jumpers”.

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The old and new mite boxes which are in use across Ireland and feature an image of St. Anthony


Some of the original wooden mite boxes are still in circulation. Sr. Martha remarked that some prefer these over the newer ones. Both units feature an image of St. Anthony and they have become synonymous with supporting the missions. Sr. Martha described how the boxes hold a very sacred place in the hearts and minds of people across Ireland.  “They represent a tangible link between a local community in Ireland and another community in an OLA mission area where the funds go to help spread the Gospel message throughout Africa.”

To find out more about the mite boxes, please email info@olaireland.ie.