A Prayer Shawl is a knitted, crocheted or quilted shawl. It is made to be given to a person in need with the intent to shelter, comfort and give solace to the recipient. It enfolds the wearer in a warm tangible hug.

Who will get the shawl?
Each shawl is to be given to a person with a particular need. The need may be during a time of stress, serious illness or medical treatment, bereavement or at any time when comfort and prayer are needed. Some shawls are not created for a particular person. Instead, when a number of shawls are finished, they can be taken to shelters, hospitals, oncology centers, hospice or nursing homes. Often, extra shawls are housed at the church where they can be picked up when an immediate need is found.

Why is it called a prayer shawl?
As each shawl is being created, its maker is in prayer for the future recipient. The Shawl Ministry group often prays together for the recipients.
A prayer may start by affirming the Lord's love and mercy and go on to ask the He show mercy to, or give comfort to the receiver of the shawl. It may ask for restored health or faith for the receiver. The prayers are heartfelt and individual to specific needs.

If you love knitting or crocheting and have compassion for others, you may be a candidate for the Prayer Shawl Ministry. The ministry team is made up of a group of dedicated people (not always just women) who get together at regular intervals to create shawls.

If this is something you feel called to, make phone calls to churches or the community center to find out if there is a Shawl Ministry in your area. If there isn't one available or if you want to start a Shawl Ministry of your own, it takes a little effort but the rewards are great. You will find it helpful to form a core group of two or three like minded crafters who can help you plan the ministry. Meet for prayer and planning concerning your venture. Discuss funding, how materials will be purchased and who the first recipients will be. Go to your church leaders to find out if this ministry can be housed in your church. Find out if there is space for the group to meet. Other facilities might be a library, senior center or community center. Find additional members by advertising your new ministry with fliers in churches, library, senior center, community center, or anyplace that has a bulletin board. Place ads in newspapers and church bulletins.

This is a perfect ministry for compassionate people who can knit, crochet or quilt, providing a loving gift during hard times. What a great way to give someone a much needed hug at a time when you can't be there yourself.

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