Our shawl ministry is a home based endeavor that is devoted to the creation, blessing and presentation of the prayer shawl. Our prayer shawls are either knitted or crocheted. A special blessing or prayer is offered for the recipient at the beginning of the project. Throughout the entire process, prayers and blessings are offered for the intended. Upon completion, the group gathers together to place their hands on the shawl and to offer the final blessing. The intent is for the shawl to wrap the receiver in love, warmth and prayers. Oftentimes, the shawls are made for someone specifically in mind. However, sometimes our group will originate a shawl only to discover later through God's lead the purpose of this project. There are various reasons that a person will receive a shawl. It may be as a comfort for mourning, to provide strength through an illness, to celebrate a birth, or any other numerous reasons.
This particular ministry originated during a Bible study as a member shared her experiences of knitting a prayer shawl for a friend with cancer. At the time I thought this would be a great idea for a ministry. I knew, however, that I could not possibly add another venture to my "to do" list. As a Mom of three young children, I already had a full schedule. Between the school and church commitments, sports and Bible study groups, I literally had no time left to allot.
Throughout the next year and a half, I continually experienced signs that God was leading me to starting this ministry. During the same time, I felt led to turn my Bible study group over to a fresh, new leader. My husband's new work schedule cause me to reevaluate my school commitments. By November 2008, I found that my schedule had been "cleared" a bit. All of the signs were adding up to lead me to believe that I should indeed pursue this ministry along with prodding from a good friend. I sent an email to a few gals to "test the waters" and see if anyone felt led, like me, to pursue this project. These particular ladies had all been a part of the "signs" that I had experienced. I expected a few would decline because everyone has full schedules. NOT ONE lady declined. As word spread, others joined and our group grew rapidly. We now have 14 wonderful ladies who use their talents and time to lend comfort and prayers to those hurting spiritually and/or emotionally.
Originally I thought these shawls would be a wonderful blessing to others. I have now come to the realization that it is I who have received the greatest blessings. I am blessed to be a part of this wonderful group of Christian women that give so much, I am blessed to be a part of the creation of these shawls that comfort those in need and I am truly blessed to see God's work in this ever growing ministry on a daily basis.
I hope as you visit our blog, YOU are blessed by the stories, the pictures and most of all, the shawls.
In His Service,
Amanda
