Since its inception in March 2011 our group has knitted 12 shawls and 9 have been given away. Five or six others are being knitted. We have been delighted and encouraged at the response to these shawls which are very varied in design, colour and pattern. As we knit we bring before the throne of Grace those for whom we are knitting to pray for healings, blessings, comfort and peace and in at least two cases to give praise to God for a new life, praying for guidance and bringing warmth and comfort for a new Mum as she feeds her baby. We all feel that we are creating a woolly ‘hug’ for those who are ill, in need, and who might otherwise feel very isolated without this physical reminder that others are praying for them and remembering them.
We would love to hear from you if you know someone who would appreciate one of our shawls, we don’t want to be knitting to have a stockpile as we feel very strongly that these shawls do make a difference, all we need is a name and whether they are in need of prayer for an illness, bereavement, loneliness or indeed celebration. It would be so much appreciated too if you ask for a shawl that you would commit to presenting it to them. Each shawl is accompanied by a note of explanation and a label dedicated to our Ministry. Men need not be excluded either as lapghans can be created for them in suitable colours.
Excerpts from our thank you notes: ‘Thank you so much for my gift of a prayer shawl. I will treasure it always. ‘Your kindness and prayers left me very emotional that you all thought of me…..’ How can I thank you and Prayer Group enough for the beautiful cuddly shawl…..’ ‘I think combining prayers and knitting is an inspirational idea, so every time I wrap it around me I’ll be thinking of your support and prayers without which I could not have coped……’
If you are a knitter and would like to be a part of this ministry, please contact Sylvia who will be happy to answer any questions. We meet once a month on every last Wednesday
at Sylvia’s home in Department 16 from 10.30 am to around 12. We have tea or coffee and chat and then knit and allow time to pray for those we are knitting for as a group. When knitting at home we commit to take time out to sit quietly and pray as we knit.
If you know of someone who would benefit from receiving one of our shawls and are willing to give details then please contact Sylvia. If you have a stash of unwanted yarn,
preferably Chunky or Aran weights then please do make contact so that we can arrange collection. If you are unable to attend a meeting but would still love to be involved then please get in touch.
Contact Sylvia by email: Sylvia@church-in-france.com
