Prayer Shawl

This ministry was first started to give warmth and comfort to those getting chemo therapy. We have expanded it to give love and to console all those in need. It does not matter whether it is a loss of someone dear or a person having a medical procedure.

These soft colorful shawls wrap, enfold, comfort, cover, give solace, mother, hug, shelter and beautify.

Those who have received these shawls have been uplifted and affirmed, as if given wings to fly above their troubles.

Great care and love is knitted or crocheted with each stitch. We pray for the recipient (even if we don't know who they are) each time we pick up our piece to sew. When the shawl is complete a final prayer is said before it is sent upon its way. Each with an encouraging note attached.

As this gift has been sent along, some recipients have continued the kindness by making one themselves and passing it onto someone in need.

Thus, the blessing is rippled from person to person, with both the giver and the receiver feeling the unconditional embrace of a sheltering and Gracious God!

If you would like to join us in this ministry or are in need of a shawl for someone, just give us a call or join us the second Wednesday of each month in the church lounge for prayer and fellowship. Call the church office for any further information at (724)287-6741 or give me a call at (724)278-8439 and ask for Elaine.

We'd love to have you join us. This is one of the patterns if you are interested in making a prayer shawl:

SEEDS OF FAITH PRAYER SHAWL

I use Vanna's Choice (baby) yarn. The 3.5oz. or 170 yards. 3 skeins should be enough. I used a #11 needle but you can use one smaller or one larger.

Seed stitch is s follows:

Cast on 57 or 63 stitches or any odd number.

Knit across the first row.

Row #2- K 1, P 1* across to the last stitch ending with a knit stitch.

Row #3- Repeat this pattern across to the end of each row.

You should have opposite stitches, knit the pearl and pearl the knit on each row. This should give you a nice seed stitch and an interesting pattern.

When you have made the shawl long enough (about 45-60 inches) knit the last row across and bind off.

At this point you can decide if you want to add fringe or crochet the short ends to finish it off.

If you want to fringe it, you should have your fringe cut before you start your last skein to be sure you have enough to finish the project. Cut as many fringe as you have stitches across.

A single crochet across and add a double crochet on top of that with a single crochet for the last row makes a really nice finish.