Part Time Job Opening

Prayer Shawl Ministry

Who

People who like to knit or crochet - or anyone who would like to learn.

What It's About

Creating shawls to present to members of the Ivanrest community who are experiencing a health or personal crisis.  Shawls serve as a reminder of the loving presence of God and the love and prayers of his people.

About the Shawls

Whether they are called Prayer Shawls, Comfort Shawls or Peace Shawls, the shawl maker begins with a prayer for the recipient.  This continues throughout the creation of the shawl.  Upon completion, a final prayer is offered before the shawl is sent on its way.  Both the giver and the receiver feel the unconditional embrace of a sheltering, loving and compassionate God.  This ministry has received several thank you cards from shawl recipients.  Click here to read their words of appreciation. 

Get Involved!

If you knit or crochet - or would like to learn - please contact one of the group leaders listed above to receive additional information and a knitting pattern.

If you don't knit or crochet but would like to support this ministry, you can donate yarn.  Please purchase three skeins of Lion Brand Homespun yarn in any color you wish, making sure all three skeins have the same dye-lot number.  Yarn may be brought to the church office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you make shawls only for members of Ivanrest?

No, shawls have also been presented to family and friends of our congregation and to members of the community.

What sort of crisis would warrant the gift of a shawl?

We have had the opportunity to present shawls for a variety of reasons.  Shawls have been given in the case of serious and/or long-term illnesses, family relationship crises, or the loss of a loved one through death.

How do you know when someone could benefit from receiving a shawl?

Sometimes the knitters suggest a person, or an elder or deacon may request a shawl.  Some shawls are placed with community groups such as hospice care and oncology treatment centers.

What age people receive the shawls?

All ages!

Do the knitters know who receives the shawl they have knitted and prayed over?

Usually not.  While there are times a shawl is crafted for a specific person, usually the recipients are unknown to the knitter, and the circumstances of his or her situation remain confidential.

Does the recipient of the shawl know where the shawl came from?

Yes.  Each shawl is presented in a gift box with a card from Ivanrest Church.

Questions?

Please contact Jo Ilbrink 532-9169 or Myrna Feyen 534-7021

The Knitters Prayer

Father God, may this shawl be a sign of Your healing presence.  May it warm those who are weary, surround those who suffer and encircle those who are in pain.  May Your gentle touch reach out to heal in the light of Christ.  Amen.