Shawls … made for centuries …
universal and embracing,
symbolic of an inclusive,
unconditionally loving, God.
They wrap, enfold, comfort, cover, hug, shelter, embrace….
Those who have received these shawls have been uplifted, feeling a loving presence greater than their own…
Whether they are called Prayer Shawls, Peace Shawls, or Mantles, 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. We’ve delivered them locally and sent them all across Canada and as far away as Africa.
Interested in making a shawl?
Our shawls are most often knit or crocheted. Neither speed of crafting nor skill level is important. Beginners are most welcome! We almost always have a generous supply of donated yarn with the hooks, needles and patterns you’ll need to start (or continue) “praying & purling”.
From time to time, our Prayer Shawl crafters have gathered for coffee, conversation and a good ole’ fashion stitching session. We hope to do that again after our world is a safer place and we feel comfortable doing so. However, one of the many blessings of this ministry is that it can happen in the safety and comfort of your own home. Regardless of, or maybe because of what is happening in the world, this vital ministry carries on, one stitch at a time.
No shawl is complete until it has been blessed. Ideally, we bless them during a worship service, adding the prayers of the congregation to each crafted shawl. Blessings have also happened virtually and in smaller groups.
Why give a shawl? Who do the shawls go to?
The short answer is: there is no wrong reason to give a shawl.
Prayer shawls are often given to those undergoing medical procedures; those living with an illness or going through a time of recovery; those living with a loss or living in a time of stress. Shawls are given in thanksgiving, and for prayer or meditation. They go out in celebration of commitment or marriage ceremonies, births, graduation, commissioning, birthday, anniversary, ordination; a gift of friendship. Giving a shawl can simply but profoundly say, ‘I am thinking about you’. The reasons to give a shawl are endless!
If you, or someone you know, would benefit from a “hug from God” – a prayer shawl – or if are interested in making shawls, please send an email to…
or contact the church office @ 519-742-1002.
If you would like to learn more about the beginnings of this ministry at SJR, check out the sermon, A Fireside Chat, here:
A fireside chat
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