Rev. Debra Schneider shared, in a recent sermon, that she was incredibly moved and deeply comforted when presented with a prayer shawl by members of her church during a difficult time she was experiencing. Those members are part of a prayer shawl ministry and routinely provide the shawls for those in need of comfort. This message has inspired us to start our own 'Prayer Shawl Ministry' here at Glen Morris where shawls can be knit or crocheted, on your own or in a group. We will ask our Pastoral Care Team for guidance as to who in our midst and beyond would most need this kind of prayer and comfort.

 "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 Copyright ©2022

Whether they are called Prayer Shawls, Comfort Shawls, Peace Shawls, or 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 onto 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.

Some uses for the shawl...
Shawls can be used for: undergoing medical procedures; as a comfort after a loss or in times of stress; during bereavement;  birthing, nursing a baby; leading ritual; during an illness and recovery; ministering to others.

To make a shawl personal, the giver or the recipient may want to adorn the shawl with beads, shells, feathers and charms.  A blessing or ritual maybe offered when the gift is presented.

If you would like to be part of this Prayer Shawl Ministry, either as a knitter or a crocheter - beginner or advanced - please email Karen at kmurray.hopf@gmail.com so that we may gather to organize this new 'ministry'.