Boil water. Preheat oven to 425°. Line two pie plates with pie shells. Combine molasses, water, and baking soda. Pour equal amounts into each shell. Combine flour, sugar, and shortening. Mix until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly on both pies. Bake at 425° for 10 to 15 minutes. Reduce heat to 375° and bake for 30 to 40 minutes.
Recipe by Sally Peirson, St. Peter's Pantry,
St. Peter's Lutheran Church community cookbook.