Prayer Shawl Ministry

We, at Hastings United Methodist Church, know and depend on the loving embrace of God the Father in our times of sorrow and pain. The shawls and lap robes that are given to those experiencing difficult times are created in prayer for the individuals receiving them. Each step of the process is covered in prayer, from the selection of the yarn to the presentation of the completed shawl or lap robe

Every shawl and lap robe is prayerfully selected for each individual in need. They are given to those who have lost loved ones; those who have suffered from health related problems; those who are in pain physically, spiritually, emotionally. They are given privately and in confidence.

Both women and men are recipients of prayer shawls and lap robes.

Beginning in the winter of 2007/2008 we added prayer cloths to this ministry. These prayer cloths are given to people of all ages who are entering a time of deep, consecrated prayer and give the person praying something tangible to hold during the time of prayer. The cloths are hand made and prayed over, just as are the shawls and lap robes. If you would like a prayer cloth for your prayer time, stop by the church office. All you need to do is ask. It will be given to you.

We are always looking for people who can knit or crochet (or those who would like to learn) to make the shawls. If you would like online assistance to learn to knit or crochet use the following links:

http://www.knittinghelp.com/

http://www.nexstitch.com/v_crochet_videos.html

http://www.anniesattic.com/crochet/content.html?type_id=S

Are you looking for a new Prayer Shawl pattern? The following web sites contain an abundance of links to free shawl patterns on the internet. You are sure to find just the right one:

Knitted Shawl Patterns

Crochet Shawl Patterns

Prayer is the most critical part of this ministry, so if you can pray, we want you to be a partner with us, pray with us, and pray for us. We depend on our partners to inform us of where the needs exist; who needs to be physically wrapped in the love of God.

One Sunday each month the shawls and lap robes will be in the sanctuary. Those who so desire may pray over them before or after each of the three services.

We meet together on a rotating schedule during the school year. Check with the church office to find out when the next meeting is. But you don't need to be at the meetings to participate with us in the Prayer Shawl Ministry. Feel free to knit or crochet a shawl on your own. If you have a pattern you like, go ahead and use that one. All we ask is that you remember to infuse your time and the shawl with prayer.

"Shout for joy, O heavens; rejoice, O earth; burst into song, O mountains! For the Lord comforts His people and will have compassion on His afflicted ones." Isaiah 49:13