What is a Prayer Shawl?

A prayer shawl is a shawl that has been knitted or crocheted by a caring person (crafter) in our congregation for someone who: is facing a serious illness or surgery, is grieving, is facing difficult life circumstances, or is rejoicing in a happy event such as a wedding, the birth of a baby, a baptism, a graduation, a new home or any other significant moment in life.

Many blessings are knitted or crocheted into every shawl. The crafter begins each shawl with prayers for the recipient. Prayers are continued throughout the creation of the shawl. When the shawl is completed, it is offered a final blessing during the Sunday liturgies before being given away.

The shawls are meant to serve as mantles of God's gentle love and blessings. Our hope is that, as the recipients wear their shawls, they will be enfolded in warmth, peace, strength and comfort.

How can I get involved or obtain a prayer shawl for someone?

The prayer shawl ministry group holds monthly meetings in the Chapel. If you are interested in participating by knitting or crocheting shawls but are unable to attend the meetings, you are welcome to make shawls on your own. For more information or if you have questions, please conact Audrey Conway or Mary Dadd via the church office.

The shawl pattern is a simple knit 3, purl 3 to represent the Trinity (God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit). Cast on 57 stitches and knit to a length of 60 inches. Add a fringe on both ends.

If you know of someone who would benefit from receiving a prayer shawl, within our congregation or beyond, please contact the church office or one of the church clergy, The Rev. Ralph Blackman or The Rev. Canon Jean Mitchell.