We caught up with the Prayer Shawl Ministry this month. They create shawls for the sick and anyone in need of a warm embrace. They also create baby blankets for newborns at local hospitals.
Here’s what a few of the members have to say:
1. What inspired you to get involved with the Prayer Shawl group and why is it important?
Alice: I think it was the knowledge that our needlework is going to brighten the days of people who are especially in need of comforting, a sign of love, and that they are not forgotten.
Ruth: Sharing my enjoyment of knitting and crocheting with others reminds me to “Let go and let God.”
Elsie: I’ve crocheted and enjoyed it for many years. When First UMC started a prayer shawl ministry I knew I would love meeting with others, talking and getting to know them better.
Jeanne: My mother patiently taught me to knit, so I remember her as I work on a shawl. The prayer shawl ministry gave me the nudge to get back to knitting. In a small way our shawls help someone with a heavy burden feel the warmth and love of Jesus with them.
2. Can you think of a time when you were given an unexpected gift from someone outside of your family? What was that like?
Alice: An unexpected note from a thankful recipient of a prayer shawl. It’s nice to know we are appreciated.
Ruth: At a time of anxiety and life‘s challenges, I received a prayer shawl. Reading the prayer attached to it while wearing the shawl brought me peace and comfort.
Elsie: A big surprise. I always felt I didn’t really deserve it but so appreciated it!
Jeanne: On receiving a gift from outside of my family, I feel I really have a good and deep friend.
3. What is the role of prayer in your life? How would you define/describe your prayer time?
Alice: Prayer keeps me strong and is a personal and quiet time for me alone.
Ruth: Each morning and evening. My prayer time brings me solace and joy by sending thoughts to the LORD.
Elsie: Prayer is now and always has been a huge part of my life. Morning, noon and night – and throughout the night – I find myself in prayer, very often surprising myself when I realize it.
Jeanne: Though I don’t have a structured prayer time, I am regularly having times where I am telling God what’s happening or how I’m feeling and asking for his guidance, and sometimes just for the assurance that He is with me.
