Knit One, Pray Too – Global Sisters Report Article
UPDATE AS OF JANUARY 2025
What is the Prayer Shawl Ministry? – The Prayer Shawl Ministry of St. Catherine-St. Lucy and St. Giles parish is a group of people who knit or crochet shawls and lap blankets to be given to anyone experiencing hardship, illness, grief, or significant life transitions as a tangible symbol of our church community’s love, care and support.
I enjoy knitting/crocheting, but I can’t attend the meetings. Can I still participate? – Yes! All are welcome to participate in the Prayer Shawl Ministry by doing whatever they can, including knitting/crocheting shawls, donating yarn, attending meetings (if possible), or simply spreading the word about this ministry.
Happenings at the latest meeting – Despite the cold weather, the Prayer Shawl ministers came together for the most recent monthly meeting on January 13. The meeting was opened and closed with prayer, and all submitted items were prepared and blessed. Since the November meeting, 31 prayer shawls and lap blankets have been received, and 21 have been distributed.
The next meeting will be on Monday, February 10, at 1 pm at the Parish Ministry Center – If you can’t attend the meeting but have a donation of a shawl, of yarn, of money for us to buy more yarn, or have a question, or if you or someone you know needs a prayer shawl or lap blanket, contact the Parish Center at 708-383-3430.
May you feel the warmth of God’s love,
Margie Rudnik, for the Prayer Shawl Ministry
Over the centuries, shawls have come to symbolize shelter, peace and spiritual sustenance. Our Prayer Shawl Ministers lovingly donate their time and talents by creating hand-knitted and crocheted shawls and lap blankets for those suffering and those celebrating life’s most joyous events. They provide warmth and embrace the recipient through the prayers and presence of a loving St. Catherine of Siena-St. Lucy and St. Giles parish and the presence of a loving God.
The St. Giles Prayer Shawl Ministers knit or crochet their shawls at home and then gather on the 2nd Monday of the month from 1 to 2:30 pm at the Parish Center, to work on their shawls, pray for the recipients and enjoy each other’s company. The shawls are then blessed before they are sent to those in need.
You do not have to be experienced in knitting or crocheting as training and instructions will be provided as needed. So, if you are interested in sharing your time, talent and prayers, think about joining the Prayer Shawl Ministry. An evening gathering can be formed if there is a need.
Do You Know Someone Who Is In Need Of A Prayer Shawl Or Lap Blanket?
Perhaps he/she is dealing with a serious medical problem, dealing with grief for a loved one or going through a difficult time in life right now. Perhaps you know a family celebrating a wedding or the birth of a baby.
If you would like to request a shawl for someone please call the Dore Parish Center at 708-383-3430, or e-mail at stgiles@stgilesparish.org.
There is never a charge for a prayer shawl but donations are accepted. All donations are used to buy yarn for more shawls and lap blankets that will give comfort to more of our brothers and sisters in need of God’s love and grace.
If you have any questions or would like to join the Prayer Shawl Ministry please call the Parish Center at 708-383-3430.