NELSON UNITED CHURCH
"We dare to live the Way of Jesus,
Embodying the Love of God"
Photo: Judy Cameron
We gather on the first Monday of the month
at 2:00 pm–3:00 pm in Trinity Lounge.
Enter by the side door at the end of the parking lot.
Come and join us!
There is great fellowship in this ministry as we come together
for a common purpose.
We welcome all who are willing to knit or crochet and pray for others. Even if you can't come to the meetings, you can still be part of this ministry!
"Shawls ... made for centuries universal and embracing, symbolic of an inclusive, unconditionally loving, God. They wrap, enfold, comfort, cover, give solace, mother, hug, shelter and beautify.
Those who have received these shawls have been uplifted and affirmed, as if given wings to fly above their troubles..."
~ Written in 1998 by Janet Severi Bristow
Whether they are called Prayer Shawls, Comfort Shawls, Peace Shawls, Mantles, etc., the shawl maker begins with prayers and blessings for the recipient. The intentions are continued throughout the creation of the shawl. Upon completion, a final blessing is offered before the shawl is sent on its way. Some recipients have continued the kindness by making a shawl and passing it on to someone in need. Thus, the blessing ripples from person-to-person, with both the giver and receiver feeling the unconditional embrace of a sheltering, mothering God!
(*The shawls can also be crocheted, quilted, woven, or machine-knitted as well!)
Shawls can be used for:
Undergoing medical procedures; as a comfort after a loss or in times of stress; during bereavement; prayer or meditation; commitment or marriage ceremonies; birthing, nursing a baby; bridal shower or wedding gift; leading ritual; first menses or croning rites of passage; during an illness and recovery; ministering to others; graduation, birthday, anniversary, ordination, holiday gifts; or just socializing...there are endless possibilities!
The knitting pattern is simple, and the knitting action is peaceful. Prayers are knit into each shawl. When complete and before being given away, a shawl is blessed during a special time at a regular Sunday church service. A card which was chosen by our group is placed with the shawl. The bulk of the knitting is done alone and is a restorative time for the knitter. Once a month, the group gathers in the church lounge to knit in community. A candle is lit, and a prayer of choice is shared by the hostess. As the knitting happens, conversation about yarn, needles, and life unfolds. This time is about an hour.
As the shawls are knitted, crocheted, or sewn, prayers are offered for the one who will be receiving the shawl. Sometimes, you will not know who will be receiving the shawl at the time it is being made, so that the prayers may be general. The shawls are gathered together and blessed by the prayer shawl ministry group.
A dedication service and blessing will be a part of worship services when a number of shawls are completed and ready for distribution.