“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful!”
Psalm 139:13-14.
The prayer shawl ministry was started in 1998. Since that time, members of ecumenical organizations have lovingly donated their time and talents to create hand knitted or crocheted shawls for those in need in their own community. Kaaren Wilkinson heard about this ministry and felt led to begin the outreach here at Allison Creek.
The shawls are made in different colors. The recipient’s birth stone color or any other color can be used because each color has a different meaning, for example Blue-means Stability, trust, loyalty, faith, truth or tranquility. The ministry provides prayers which are said before the creation of a shawl is started, and as it is being made. The prayers are different, depending for whom it is being made. There are prayers for healing, for those who are distressed, for those who mourn, for those who travel or move away, for a new baby, for a graduate, for newlyweds, and there is also a Jewish Shawl Blessing for our Jewish Brothers and Sisters. The reasons for giving a shawl are limitless.
When Kaaren first got the gentle push to begin this ministry, she wasn’t really sure whether it was just something she wanted to do or if it really was God, but God kept pushing until she knew that He wanted her to begin this ministry. Since beginning the Prayer Shawl ministry at Allison Creek in 2007, hundreds of shawls have been lovingly shared with those in need of this ministry.
How the Shawls Can be Shared
The shawls are handcrafted with love by members of the Prayer Shawl ministry. The intent of the gift of a shawl is to show love, comfort and support for anyone who may need it. Those with health issues, those who are grieving, marriages, births, showers. The way they may be given are as varied as those receiving them.
The shawls can be personalized by the person giving it, by adorning with beads, feathers, charms, anything that one wants to make it more personal. A card with a note, poem, or blessing can be given along with the shawl. The shawls are special by the love and care with which they are made and presented.
The Prayer Shawl Ministry team reminds you that the shawls that have been knitted and donated are available to any and all who need one. Please take what you care to give. They are located in boxes in the parlor. There are also small card tags that you may include with the prayer shawl when you give it. We encourage you take advantage of this ministry of care for others.