Prayers
Beginning To Knit Dedication © 2025 All Rights Reserved
By: Janet Severi Bristow - 2000
Mantle of Love, Healer of Hearts,
I light this candle as a reminder of Your presence as I begin.
I ask a blessing from all who have come before me;
whose hands have been instruments of creation and beauty;
who have used humble tools and hand-spun wool in order to provide cover and warmth for
themselves and those they loved;
who have felt, as I will feel, the yarn in their fingers;
who have seen, as I will see, the growth of the fabric;
who have heard, as I will hear, the click of the needles.
Guide my attention to stay on course.
Hold me close and ground me.
Bless, also, this yarn and these knitting needles.
May any negative energy connected to them be cast away as I cast on;
and all positive energy bound in as I bind off.
In their simplicity, may I find comfort and solace.
Bless my hands...
Often just appendages at the end of my arms...
workers doing their job without appreciation...looked at, yet not really seen.
These instruments of love have done mundane tasks, yet also create beauty.
They reach out, touch, stroke, scrub, lift, grasp, gesture and guide.
These hands, my hands, gifts of great importance,
Blessings be on them and in them as I begin.
May the fruits of their labor be good!
Prayer Of Blessing (blessing for a completed shawl)
© 2025 All rights reserved.
By: Janet Severi Bristow - 2000
May God's grace be upon this shawl...
warming, comforting, enfolding and embracing.
May this mantle be a safe haven... a sacred place of security and well-being...
sustaining and embracing in good times as well as difficult ones.
May the one who receives this shawl be cradled in hope, kept in joy, graced with peace,
and wrapped in love.
Blessed Be!
Ariadne's Blessing © 2025 All rights reserved.
By: Janet Severi Bristow - 1998
Holy One,
Whose womb is threaded and waiting,guide us to pick up the thread
and walk the spiral through the dark anddifficult passages.
Life Cord,
Who sustains us as we move to our center, give us courageto meet our souls.
Comfort us through our dismantling, wrapped inYour loving embrace.
Mantle of Love,
Rebirth us with Wisdom, as we are knitted onceagain back into wholeness.
Starting Prayer © 2025 All rights reserved
By: Pamela Stiff
Dear Lord,
Take away all my negative thoughts and feelings as I work on this shawl of comfort for ___________. Guide my hands as they work and keep my thoughts positive and centered around her. I make each stitch with love and a prayer in my heart for her comfort, hope, and healing. May __________ feel Your loving arms around her as she wears this shawl and may it represent to her Your power to heal any hurt. Comfort her, Bless her, Heal Her. I ask this in Jesus name. Amen
St. Patrick Church - Starting Prayer - © 2025 All rights reserved
by Darcy Horon -Siepman
Dear Lord, Bless these needles that they stay strong and light so they don't tire the hands that wield them;
Bless this yarn with strength and softness that it will form a cloth of warmth and comfort;
Bless these hands with strength and skill so they may make well crafted gifts;
Bless this heart with strength and perseverance so I will see this work through to bring comfort to those in need;
But most of all dear Lord, Bless the wearer of this cloth with strength and comfort that
their burdens may be lightened and their hearts gladdened with the realization that they are loved.
Psalm 90:17 Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us and confirm for us the work of our
hands; yes, confirm the work of our hands.
Gathering Prayer and Blessing (for group work) © 2025 All rights reserved
By: Cathleen O'Meara Murtha, DW
www.shawlministry.comAs we gather in community to share our prayer, our stories, the work of our hearts and hands, we pray for God's blessing on our endeavors:
A blessing to my mind - to be free to enter this time of contemplative activity...
A blessing to my hands - to be the source of creating something of beauty and love...
A blessing to my soul - to be open to the promptings of loving and caring...
A blessing to my yarn - to be shaped into patterns of loving and caring...
A blessing to my needles - to be the holders of stitches as they become a whole garment...
A blessing to my knitting - to be a work of heart and hands, body and spirit...
A blessing on the one who will receive the fruit of my prayer and my knitting...
May this shawl be welcomed in the spirit in which it was knitted...
May we become one with the One who knitted each of us in our mother's womb...
I join my blessing, my prayer and my knitting with women all over the earth in this common effort tobring healing and wholeness, comfort and celebration.
Nine Blessings © 2025 All rights reserved
By: Cathleen O'Meara Murtha, DW
www.shawlministry.comI call nine blessings from above
In the name of God: the creator, the giver of life, the holder of time
In the name of Jesus: the savior, the healer, the lifter of pain.
In the name of the Spirit: the comforter, the consoler, the sustainer of life.
I knit a mantle of caring
I knit a mantle of protection
I knit a mantle of wholeness
I knit a mantle of strength
I knit a mantle of healing
I knit a mantle of patience
I knit a mantle to enfold you
I knit a mantle to encircle you
I knit a mantle to empower you.
Prayer For Healing © 2025 All rights reserved
By: Cathleen O'Meara Murtha, DW
www.shawlministry.com
In the beginning, creating Godde, you formed my being. You knit me together in my mother's womb.
To my flesh and blood you gave the breath of life.
O loving One, renew me this day in your love, grant me life as gift of Your faithfulness;
grant me light to journey by; grant me hope to sustain me.
May this mantle be for me a sign of Your healing presence. May it warm me when I am weary;
may it surround me with ease of my suffering; may it encircle me with caring when I am in pain.
O Christ who healed the broken in body and spirit, be with me and all who suffer this day.
Be with the doctors, nurses, technicians, chaplains and all who care for the sick.
Be with families and friends of those abiding with and comforting the sick.
May Your gentle, yet strong touch reach out to heal all the broken
and hurting people and places in our world.
Prayer For Comfort © 2025 All rights reserved
By: Cathleen O'Meara Murtha, DW
www.shawlministry.com
As you wrap yourself in the prayer shawl of comfort...
May the Mother of Mercy, the Father of Faithfulness and the Spirit of Compassion
wrap you in their all-encompassing love this day.
May you find comfort
from all that appears too much to bear at this moment
from all that feels as if it might be the breaking point
from all that seems to threaten your peace of heart.
May this prayer shawl be
a shelter for time of overwhelming grief
a shade in times of sorrow too deep for words
a shield from times of unimaginable loss.
May you be comforted
by the presence of those who love and support you
by faith in the eternal Loving One
by the memories of what you hold most dear.
May you be strengthened
in your daily comings and goings
in your tentative new beginnings
in your unfolding new memories.
Blessings of the Angel of Comfort be with you and all you love now and forevermore.
Psalm 139: 13-14
You created every part of me, knitting me in my mother's womb.
For such handiwork, I praise you.
Awesome this great wonder.
Shawl Blessing For Two Uniting © 2025 All rights reserved
By: Betty Breen with Jeanne Grandy & Cathleen O'Meara Murtha, DW
Spring 2002 www.shawlministry.comIn celebration of the love, hopes, and dreams the two of you bring to this new dimension in your relationship-a gift, made for you with love.
As you wrap yourselves in it together, may it be for you a gentle reminder that
You are loved and cherished,
You are gifted and giving,
You share the riches of life experience;
You are knit together with the Creator,
the one who is with you always,
and with all those whose lives touch yours.
May this shawl be for you useful...
For fun, for love, for making up, for making decisions,
For comfort, for warmth
For strengthening your Togetherness.
May love and blessings flow from your new life
together to touch this world anew.
Shawl Blessing For New Birth © 2025 All rights reserved
By: Cathleen Murtha with Jeanne Grandy
www.shawlministry.com
In the beginning, creating Godde, you formed my being.
You knit me together in my mother's womb.
To my flesh and blood you gave the breath of Life.
O loving One, we celebrate this day, gift of your love.
You have granted life as gift of your faithfulness to all generations. Grant your light to journey by; grant your hope to sustain my becoming all that I can be.
Bless my parents and all parenting, that Wisdom will guide your children to will and to work for good to the benefit of all living on this planet home.
May this wrap, whether for nurture, warmth, or security, be a gentle reminder of my prayer and Your presence and love with us always.
New Baby - Shawl Blessing © 2025 All rights reserved
By: Janet Severi Bristow
St. Patrick/St. Anthony Prayer Shawl Ministry
www.shawlministry.com
Loving God,
Bless this woman and this new life birthed into the world.
As she wraps her baby into this shawl, may she too, be enfolded in Your unconditional, motherly embrace.
Precious these two lives, forever bonded to each other - to You!
Bless too, this child's father... provider, protector, and guardian. As his child grows,
may he be given the strength, compassion, and tenderness needed to be the best role model
he can be.
Surround this family with comfort,
Wrap them in peace,
Bundle them securely in love,
Cradle them with hope in the future.
May their days together grow in joy, guided by Your tender, maternal love,
blessing this family through all the generations.
Amen
Prayer Shawl for Expectant Mother of Twins © 2025 All rights reserved
Good Shepherd Parish - Edmonton, Alberta Canada
Prayers and loving thoughts were woven into the stitches of this prayer shawl as it was crocheted for you.
May it be a sign of God’s constant caring presence and His abiding love.
May it remind you to be ever thankful for your unique God given gifts.
May it remind you of the answer to your prayers, this miracle of new life.
May it encircle you with warmth and comfort when you are tired and stressed.
May hosts of angels surround and protect you and the babies at the time of birth.
May God’s generous blessings be bestowed on you and the unborn twins as it warms you.
May God bless you as new parents and grant you strength and wisdom along the way.
In wonder and thanksgiving, may you enjoy watching your precious little family grow.
Enjoy the shawl made with love, hugs and prayers,
And remember to trust in the Lord.
Prayer Shawl for Twins (name, or Baby) © 2025 All rights reservedGood Shepherd Parish - Edmonton, Alberta Canada
Prayers and loving thoughts were stitched into this Prayer Shawl as it was made just for you.
May it be a sign of God’s constant presence and His abiding love.
May it remind you to be thankful for the precious gift of life you received and grateful for your unique God given talents.
May it remind you to treasure your parents and loving circle of family and friends.
May it surround you with warmth and comfort when you are weary.
May it be a mantle and sign of God’s healing presence when you are sick.
May hosts of angels surround and protect you as babies (a baby) and as you grow into adulthood.
May God continue to bless you and grant you strength and wisdom along the way.
May you (both) be blessed with good health in body, mind and soul with a kind, loving heart.
Enjoy your shawl made with love, hugs and prayers,
And remember to trust in the Lord.
PRAYER OF BLESSING (for pets)
(adapted from prayers by J. Bristow & S. Jorgensen; www.shawlministry.com)
May God's grace be upon this garment of prayer...
Warming, comforting, and embracing.
As you gently wrap this around your beloved pet,
May you both be surrounded by love knit into it,
enfolded by comfort and prayer,
graced with peace,
and kept in eternal life,
Knowing that our Lord has a special place in His heart for the animals created by His hand.
Amen.
Opening Prayer © 2025 All rights reserved
Written By: Cynthia D. Yee
West Avon Congregational Church
www.shawlministry.com
Jesus spoke to them, saying,
"I am the light of the world.
Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness
but will have the light of life."
Gracious and loving God, as we light our candle we remember
Your Light which shines into darkness,
Your Son whose life, death and resurrection gives us hope,
Your Spirit which permeates every corner of our lives.
Be present here as we knit these shawls and enjoy each other's company.
We remember all those for whom we knit these shawls:
Those who are lonely and need to know they are loved,
Those who are ill and yearn for healing of body, mind and spirit,
Those who face challenging decisions and search for guidance,
Those who are grieving and welcome comforting words and actions,
Those who are celebrating newness of life and rejoice in the warmth and
richness surrounding them.
Again
Bind us together in one community of love, founded on the faith that Your love and grace are everlasting. Amen
Prayer used for opening the gathering of The Prayer Shawl Ministry
at West Avon Congregational Church.
In Celebration of the Group's Second Anniversary. © 2025 All rights reserved
Written By: Kay M. Donnelly
West Avon Congregational Church 5/13/02
www.shawlministry.com
Our Heavenly Father, thank you for this opportunity to gather together and
celebrate our ministry. We've been blessed with the opportunity to share
our love and concern for others through something tangible - the prayer shawl.
We come in joy tonight recognizing our second anniversary,
and pray for our continued mission in the years to come.
Please give us your blessing as we daily reach out to others
and spread the word of Love.
Opening Prayer © 2025 All rights reserved
By: MJ Pattison - New Life Presbyterian Church - Rochester, NY
(prayer to be read after reading Psalm 90)
O Lord, indeed, establish thou the work of our hands
bless these new and empty knitting needles
so that they may become instruments of prayer and meditation.
As we fill them may our hearts be filled with the ones we hold dear
who need your special providence and embrace.
For those of us who are learning something new, give us perseverance
as we remember those who courageously face what they did not choose.
For those of us who are making sacred a hobby and a joy,
give us patience and gratitude as we pray for our friends who
inspire us with their patience and gratitude in the face of suffering
and the fear of losing life.
O Lord, establish thou the work of our hands
as we pray in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Who know all the suffering we can know because he took it upon
himself for our sakes. - Amen
Prayer When In Doubt © 2025 All rights reserved
By: Ruby Ouelette -CT
(To my Mother, whose perseverance and wisdom while battling cancer
gave me the strength to write this poem God's speed - I love you!)
Oh, angel of mine please hear my prayers,
give me strength and remove my fears.
My heart is heavy and I'm having doubts,
I'm asking you please help me out.
I'm not asking for a sign just a little love
between your heart and mine.
I know you are with me every night,
guide me so I know what I do is right.
In loving memory of Mary Ouelette
June 25, 1947 - July 4, 1998
The Healing Shawl
Co-Authors Marilyn Maxen and Carol Wertheimer - © 2025 All rights reserved
I woke as the dark began to fade
A ray of light played on the shade
I'm surrounded by a warm, soft glow
It is love...that I know.
It's not the love of my youthful days
But the love of a stranger far away.
She knitted for me a healing shawl
And prays for strength if I should fall.
These silky strands which embrace my soul
Surround me with love and make me whole
Below this warm fabric lay the depth of its meaning
Healing and love is what it is bringing
The love of strangers, family and friends
Nourish my body and urge it to mend.
Prayer for All - © 2025 All rights reserved Tish Hoar
Dear Lord, please bless these needles of mine.
That I may make a shawl of strength, faith,
health and love. Give this shawl the ability to comfort,
the ability to heal, the ability to give strength
where it is needed and of your will it to be.
May the recipient be able to know that you are with
them and that they are not alone.
That they are cared for and loved and prayed for.
That your loving arms are around them,
to protect them for whatever reason they should need,
whenever they put this shawl on.
Lord, thank-you for the
blessings that this shawl is given. Amen.
Prayer for Shawl Ministry - Closing Prayer - © 2025 All rights reserved
Good Shepherd Parish - Edmonton, Alberta Canada
Dear Lord,
We thank you for the generous gifts we have received and ask for your
continued blessings on our homes and families.
May the Holy Spirit guide us as we share of our time, talents, prayers
and love in this Prayer Shawl Ministry
We also ask your blessings on the recipients of the shawls that they may feel comforted
by your steadfast love and if possible that their health be restored.
We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
A Shawl Maker's Prayer
© 2025 All rights reserved - By Diane Burgess
Dear Lord; Bless my hands as I knit today. May each
twist of the yarn guide me to create a pattern of love and
comfort in my work and remind me of Your ultimate protection.
Wrap me in Your spirit so that I will be more caring towards
those in need.
Grant me patience as I create this shawl. And bless
my handiwork as it travels to bring comfort and peace
to someone in need of Your warming embrace. Amen.
A prayers from the Bahai faith:
Submitted by: Sandra Klassen
Thy name is my healing, O my God, and remembrance of Thee is my remedy.
Nearness to Thee is my hope and love for Thee is my companion. Thy mercy to
me is my healing and my succor in both this world and the world yet to come.
Thou, verily, art the All-Bountiful, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise.
2nd prayer: submitted by: Sandra Klassen
Is there any remover of difficulties save God? Say praise be God!
He is God! All are His servants and all abide by His bidding!
Blessings For You
- © 2025 All rights reserved Tish
There is many blessings in this shawl I made for you,
It starts with a prayer and some yarn (with a lot of help from the Lord too),
As hours go by and your shawl has grown,
I pray all the prayers and blessings for you and hope you will have known,
That someone cares and thinks of you,
Like The Lord above and me too.
There is a lot of Blessings in this shawl I made for you,
It ends with a prayer and some yarn and gifted with Blessings anew.
From the Lord and me and delivered to you.
The Divine Knitter - © 2025 All rights reserved
Sister Theresa Ann, cps
The Divine Knitter
The pattern selected,
the color chosen,
the Knitter rejoices
in loving
anticipation.
Jesus,
The Knitter sits
silently
casting on the yarn,
touching
with reverence
its texture,
feeling
its softness
flowing
through His fingers.
I, the pattern
I, the yarn
held
in loving anticipation.
I am
Being knit
Into being.
Into the Image
and
Likeness of God.
God, Who delights in
My unfolding,
God, Who finds joy
In the shawl
I am
Becoming.
Jesus,
The knitter,
Loves me,
Cherishes me
Holds me
Close to His heart.
For
I am the shawl
The work of
His hands.
BORNE
By Janet Severi Bristow © 2025 All rights reserved
4/2005
www.shawlministry.com
Like a butterfly emerging from its cocoon, a shawl skeins of yarn. Wings to fly above troubled waters
~~~Envelopment is from Solace~~~
~~~~~~~~~ unfurled ~~~~~~~~
Shelter Peace
~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~
Comfort Rest
~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~
Security Sacred
~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~
Warmth
Provena St. Mary's Praying Hands Shawl Ministry - Praying Hands Crafters
Kankakee, IL
Beginning Prayer: "God, bless the work of my hands, may it bring joy to the wearer and
peace to the crafter. May the person who receives this shawl feel your
loving embrace. May this shawl be a tangible prayer and blessing. Amen" © 2025 All rights reserved
Prayer Tag that is packaged with the shawl:
"This shawl was crafted with prayers for your healing-Body, Mind &
Spirit. As you wear this shawl may you feel the warm embrace of our
Heavenly Father." © 2025 All rights reserved
Good God! © 2025 All rights reserved
~a shawl maker’s prayer~
By Janet Severi Bristow
Good God!
Guide me through the
knots,
kinks,
dropped stitches,
split yarn,
shredded fringe,
dye lot mismatches,
pattern mistakes,
errors,
and the myriad other “issues” that get in the way of my centeredness!
Help me to see that these annoyances:
knotted emotions,
kinked plans,
dropped dreams,
split relationships,
shredded hopes,
mismatched friendships,
mistaken assumptions,
errant goals
are actually metaphors of life!
As I knit through the creation of the shawl, I gratefully acknowledge and accept the imperfections, weaving
them into my prayers and intentions for the one who will be
wrapped in and
blessed by it all!
Say a Little Prayer - © 2025 All rights reserved
Written by: Tish H.
Say a Little Prayer
As I start this shawl I say a little prayer.
In hopes this shawl will be worn,
And not thrown neatly on a chair.
I say a little prayer that the Lord grants
your intentions that only you know.
I hope this shawl gives you comfort
where ever you go.
So, when you are happy, sad or you think
no one cares.
Wrap this shawl around you and say a little prayer.
Hope, Faith and Love is in each stitch I make
from beginning to end.
And with all the prayers I pray with this shawl that I send.
I pray that you know that the Lord is always there.
As I am finished with this shawl I say a little prayer.
Heavenly Father...............you who know the deepest desires of our
hearts.............to encourage..........to nurture.............to soothe
the weary worn travelers of this earth. As we wait expectantly for the
return of your Son, Jesus.......................we create these shawls
with purpose. Purpose to lift the heavy loads and burdens from the
backs of the bearers. With each stitch that is made, let it be a
representation of the love that flows freely from the throne room of
grace. Merciful Redeemer..............gives us the were withal to
accomplish this labor of love. Bless every part of our being, so that
we are able to create one shawl after another, never growing weary.
Let all be done to Your Honor and Glory.................in the Precious
Name of Your Son, Jesus.
Submitted by......................June Gauthier © 2025 All rights reserved
www.shawlministry.com
Baha'i Healing Prayer © 2025 All rights reserved
Submitted by: Adair L. of Woodbridge, CT
"Thy Name is my healing, O my God, and remembrance of Thee is my remedy. Nearness to Thee is my hope,
and love for Thee is my companion. Thy mercy to me is my healing and my succor in both this world
and the world to come. Thou, verily, art the All-Bountiful, the All-Knowing, he All-Wise." Baha'u'llah
Prayer Shawl Tag
Prayer Written By: Gena Kathka, March 16, 2006
© 2025 All rights reserved www.shawlministry.com
This shawl was made just for you
To bring comfort
To know you are loved
To share in your joy
This shawl is to wrap you up
When you're cold
When you're hurting
When you need to snuggle
This shawl was knitted or crocheted
With Blessings
With Love
With Prayers
Made By _______________
Prayer Shawl Prayer
© 2025 All rights reserved
By Chuck Svihlik
Dear God, with You all things are possible
Bless these hands as they attempt to create this shawl,
may they do Your Bidding, and when complete may this shawl
give warmth and comfort to who ever receives it.
Let it be filled with Your Love. Amen
P.S. Chuck's wife Marianne uses this prayer when making shawls with her loom.
Prayer For Healing - By Sandy Mann © 2025 All rights reserved
Guided by God’s love for us, this shawl is knit for you.
Healing, strength and peace, to bless upon your spirit true.
Wrap yourself in warmth and love, entwined in every stitch.
Prayers said to God above, please heal, mend and enrich.
Father, Son, Holy Spirit, intoned throughout the shawl.
Triune blessings knit within it, best wishes from us all.
A Simple Prayer - By Michele Maclure © 2025 All rights reserved
May this prayer shawl enfold you in warmth, comfort, healing and peace.
Prayer for the Seriously Ill by Leslie Hay
This Prayer Shawl was made for you, ………………., with hope
for your swift recovery, and complete healing in the name of the
Lord, Jesus Christ. May it warm you when you are chilled, and
comfort you when you are feeling down. And may God bless you
with His healing touch.
With Love and Blessings
…………………….
THE PRAYER SHAWL
I wrap the prayers of warmth and love around your weary frame,
Praising, thanking God for the gift of you as
I pray your name.
Every stitch sends forth a plea that Joy will fill your soul.
On and on the needles fly making a
pattern of prayer gold.
The shawl takes on a holiness for prayer
is wrapped inside,
It is so soft and warm , a place where
You can hide.
It then becomes a prayer itself, this pain
that you endure,
And it rises with love’s incense, sacred ,warm and sure.
So as you wrap the shawl around may you feel my
Presence there.
I may not sit beside you but I am no farther than a prayer.
PEACE AND LOVE
JEAN QUIGLEY
OCTOBER , 2004
Used with permission by the author
From the book: To Dance with Daffodils
On Earth, content, but spiritually rich!
Love and prayers in every stitch!
For you, I made this shawl
To use as through this life you walk –
Your private "closet", as you talk
To God, whose promise sure,
Keeps your secret things secure.
He is God over all.
Written by: Netagene in Birmingham
Age 63, became legally blind at age 59,
but sufficient usable sight to still knit and crochet.
|
A Knitted *insert name* Comfort
insert name = insert your ministry/group's
Each strand of colour and texture
represents the members of *insert name*.
The cast on row represents your
new found strong foundations.
Your empowerment, firmly
holding all together.
Each stitch entwines the colour of life
embowed, entwined within just as we are
altogether and connected,
linked forever more.
Each row is another step you take,
higher up than the first.
They represent our arms supporting you.
The last row, the cast off row
represents one of letting go,
releasement.
All these form a massive big
healing hug from all at *insert name*.
May you feel the love for you
as you wrap yourself in this gentle hug.
Now for you, always to keep.
Love from all at *insert name*
Copyright by LittleFeathers2
aka Gloria Currie - UK
27th Jan '07
|
Prayer to be said while knitting
By: Marti Belknap- Cardiff, CA Fall 2008
Bless this shawl that it may be
filled with healing energy.
_____(name)_____ is in my heart today
as I knit and as I pray.
May each stitch be filled with care,
comfort, strength, and warmth to share.
May the love in every row
help God’s sacred healing flow.
Beginning Prayer:
Heavenly Father, You are Alpha and Omega. You know our yesterdays, todays and tomorrows.
Be with us now as we work together to bring your comfort and strength to those who are in need.
We lift up the names of those who have received a shawl.
We lift up the names of those will receive a shawl in progress.
We lift up the names of those who will need a shawl in the future.
Be their tower of strength.
Be by their side.
Be their peace and comfort.
Bless our work as we knit and crochet these tangible gifts that will surround your children with your love.
Amen
Written submitted by Donna Saltzberg
Trinity Presbyterian Church Prayer Shawl Ministry
Shoreline, WA
Shawls of Hope Candle Lighting © 2025 All rights reserved
Written By: Helen Knowles
http://www.shawlsofhope.piczo.com
Intro
We have entered the Season of Advent, known for candle lighting ceremonies & symbolism.
Therefore, I have chosen to begin our gathering with the lighting of five candles,
each symbolic of a significant aspect to shawl ministry.
First Candle
We light this candle for our shawl recipients & their families. Their names are as follows.
Second Candle
We light this candle for potential recipients & those we haven’t yet been
identified …. the sick, the bereaved & the troubled.
Third Candle
We light this candle for shawl ministry around the world & for its founders.
Fourth Candle
We light this candle for Shawls of Hope, our knitters, the work of our
hands & our ongoing ministry.
Fifth Candle
The fifth candle is the Candle of Hope, which we light on the first Sunday of Advent.
The Old Testament prophets were hoping for a Messiah, so their prophesies were
fulfilled in the humble Bethlehem birth. Hope is like a light shining in a dark place.
As we light this candle, we celebrate the hope we have in Jesus Christ. As well,
we celebrate the hope, that shawl ministry inspires in recipients around the world.
Prayer
Loving & generous God, we thank you for the opportunity of sharing in this unique ministry,
for unique opportunities to work & pray together, as well as unique opportunities
to express our love & concern for others. Bless the fellowship we share, the work of our
hands & the lives of those for whom we create. Grant them Your comfort, hope & encouragement. Amen.
Author Vicky Dawson writes; "I was knitting all the positive energy into a prayer shawl
during a Celtic Spirituality retreat and this prayer just flowed into my mind."
God in the clicking of the needles;
God in the yarn,
God in my fingers and hands.
God in the intentions.
God in the Ewe.
God in the weaving, for the sake
of Your Peace.
God's Peace in the making
Christ's Peace in the giving
The Spirit's Peace in the receiving.
Amen, Amen, Amen
With prayers for showers of blessing
from blue skies
and sunshine
and just enough clouds for rosy sunrises.
This poem went with a prayer shawl I crocheted while I was visiting my aging parents. I'd used yellow
and blue and white, my favorite colors, crocheting horizontally so all the colors would be visible to the wearer.
I ran out of white just inches from the end of the row, so I asked Daddy if I might use some yarn from his stock.
He graciously granted permission, and I chose pink. Beth Hoffmann, Waukesha, WI
Bless This Child Dear God......
Loving God, bless this child who was brought into your world.
As her mother wraps her in this shawl may she too
Be enfolded in Your Unconditional embrace.
Protect these two lives that are forever bonded.
Bless the child’s father too…
He is the provider, the protector and guardian.
May his strength endure.
His compassion for his child and her Mother be sustained,
and may he continue to be a role model for her.
Surround this family with love and comfort.
Wrap them in your peace.
Bundle them in security and
cradle them in your hope for the future.
Bless their extended family and show your new little lamb
that love surrounds her.
Thank you Lord for your abiding love.
Amen
Prayer made with love from:
Prayer Shawl Ministry at First Presbyterian Church Goshen, NY 2008
Submitted by: Wendy Paffenroth
Hugs & Kisses Shawl
A Hugs and Kisses Shawl for you,
To comfort & wrap you when you are blue,
Each stitch is made with prayers and love,
A gentle reminder of our God above.
Dear angels please, hear my prayers,
To give you strength and take away fears.
May all these strands embrace your soul,
Surround you with love and make you whole.
God bless you with his healing touch,
We know this is not asking much.
Faith, hope and love are in every stitch there,
Always remember we always will care.
GOD BLESS YOU
XOXOXO (hugs and kisses)
Prayer Shawl Ministry at First Presbyterian Church Goshen, NY 2008
Submitted by: Wendy Paffenroth
Grandmother’s Prayer*
May God’s grace be upon this shawl….
Warming, comforting, enfolding and embracing;
just as a Grandmother has done for all her children and Grandchildren.
May this shawl be a reminder of a safe and secure hug,
and that a Grandmother’s love is sustaining,
just like the Love from the Lord.
This shawl in three colors, or stitches or three,
is a reminder of the Trinity:
Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
May it also remind us of how we are “knit together” in a family,
and of the love that flows from one generation to the next.
Grandmothers are always there to hold us, guide us,
and walk by our sides, throughout our lives;
taking us down the paths that lead us to our God.
God grant you peace, hope, wisdom, a happy heart, the ability to
comfort, strength, patience, and joy.
As you wear this shawl feel the loving arms of our Lord
around your shoulders.
Grandmothers are very special teachers to the following
generations.
God Bless You.
Prayer Shawl Ministry at First Presbyterian Church Goshen, NY 2008
Submitted by: Wendy Paffenroth
*Adapted from:
Prayer Of Blessing (blessing for a completed shawl) By: Janet Severi Bristow - 2000 © 2025 All rights reserved
Prayer for a Crochet Shawl
By: Irma Landesfeind - Downey, CA
"As I crochet this shawl for you I hold you firmly in my mind and present you to God and ask him to please look at you,
to surround you with his love, with his warmth, with his strength, with his peace and joy.
I let go of you and I see you standing there before him, your being surrounded by his radiance.
I pray that each stitch may forever keep my prayers for you and your well being.
I pray that you may feel all these prayers, that they may touch your soul, whenever you wrap yourself in this shawl.
I pray that you may know God's love, his warmth, his strength, his peace and his joy every day of your life."
Prayer Shawl Dedication Prayer
-- A prayer for both the shawl maker & shawl recipient --
Dear Lord, as we gather together this morning, we thank you for
Your loving hands which have knit the fabric of our life.
On this day, we thank you for <shawl maker's name>'s loving hands
as she made <recipient's name>'s prayer shawl.
We are thankful that You heard and answered <shawl maker's name>'s prayers of comfort
and healing for <recipient's name>'s as she made <recipient's name>'s prayer shawl.
We pray that You will continue to strengthen, comfort and bless
<recipient's name>'s and her family as they travel this road of life.
We dedicate this prayer shawl to Your glory and commitment to <recipient's name>'s as we thank You
for <shawl maker's name>'s loving hands, in Your holy name. Amen.
From: Cherry Hill Presbyterian Church ~ Dearborn, MI
A Prayer Shawl Tag
Submitted by: Keith Goheen, Chaplain
Beebe Medical Center
Lewes, DE USA
Knitted by hand and threaded with prayers of love and hope,
This shawl is a gift to you.
May it bring blessings of comfort, gifts of warmth
And the knowledge that you are loved.
Prayer Tag Blessing in Spanish and English
Submitted by: Nancy Bierman
Columbine United Church - Littleton, CO
Queridos amigos:
Este chal de oración es un regalo de la gente de nuestra iglesia que se llama <<Columbine United Church>> en Littleton, Colorado, USA.
Se empezó con una oración y se tricotaron muchas oraciones y muchas bendiciones en la tela.
Cuando se terminó, nos reunimos en un círculo y lo pasamos de mano a mano para bendecirlo.
Que sientan ustedes consuelo y esperanza cuando usen el chal. Que los rodee del amor y de la tranquilidad de Dios, ahora y para siempre.
¡Bendiciones!
Dear Friends:
This prayer shawl is a gift from the people of Columbine United Church in Littleton, Colorado, USA.
It was started with a prayer and many prayers and blessings were knit into the fabric.
When it was finished, we gathered in a circle and passed it from hand to hand to bless it.
May you feel comfort and hope as you wear it. May it encircle you in God’s love and peace, now and always.
Blessings
We just began our prayer shawl ministry (called Knit One, Pray Two). For the first meeting I wanted to do something special to kick it off, so I thought of a Blessing of the Hands. The ladies in the group loved it and it lets them know how much this church values this new ministry. Our head pastor did the blessing by anointing their hands with oil. When done for nurses, it is usually done by first washing the hands in a basin of warm water, but we chose not to do that.
Lynne LeBlanc, RN, BSN
Parish Nurse - Christ Episcopal Church - Charlotte, NC
Blessing of the Hands Ceremony
Parish Nurse: Romans 12:11-13
11-Never give up. Eagerly follow the Holy Spirit and serve the Lord. 12-Let your hope make you glad. Be patient in time of trouble and never stop praying. 13-Take care of God's needy people and welcome strangers into your home.
Explanation of Blessing of the Hands and Invitation:
“Blessing of the Hands is usually done for nurses and other health care workers. I had the pleasure of taking part in it for the first time when I completed my parish nurse training and it was a wonderful and meaningful way to begin my ministry. We thought it would be a wonderful way to begin this ministry and emphasize the impact we think this ministry will have on both you and those you reach through it. Please come up one by one and receive the Blessing of the Hands”
Pastor:
Blessing: "Blessed are the works of your hands. May your creations bring love, support, and comfort in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Thank you for the loving care with which you will create these shawls. May God renew your spirit and bless you this day and always. Amen"
Completed Shawl or (Lap) Blanket or Afghan* Prayer
Written By: Robert C. Williams
God help (N.) to remember this ___________________ as a symbol for all of the blessings in his/her life.
Give (N.) peace, and (n.). I thank you Holy Spirit for guiding my hands and my words through prayer.
Guard and escort this _______________ on its journey after it leaves my hands.
I ask this through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God, forever and ever. Amen.
N.) – name of the recipient
(n.) – additional item(s), e.g., healing
* I made this general as possible because people might be making any type of coverings, e.g., baby blanket.
A Prayer For You As You Retire
Written by: Barbara Gilliland
Frederick, MD
The following prayer can be adapted for a woman who is retiring
Dear God, bless [name] as he enters this new season in his life. May it be a time of peace, A time of joy and
a time of hope, of rest and of relaxation as he begins his retirement. Our Father, we pray that you will be blessed
with many years in which to accomplish all you have “stored up” for this season of your life.
And Lord, as Dave uses this shawl [or lap robe] made especially for him, may he be cradled in hope,
kept in joy, graced with peace and wrapped in love.
May he feel Your strength, Your comfort, Your caring, Your protection and may he know
that he is never alone.
Amen
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, "plans to prosper
you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future......"
Jeremiah 29: 11 (NIV)
Mildred’s Prayer
We praise you Lord for giving us these hands
To knit these shawls
To comfort the sick, the weary,
The many friends and neighbors
Who do not have loved ones to be by their side.
May they find comfort in the work that we do
and the love we send.
Prayer submitted by: Eva Groves
The Lutheran Church of the Messiah - "Messiah's Mantles"
http://www.princetonlutheranchurch.org/
Shawl of Grief
Written by: Aileen Bennett
For her son: Matthew Bennett
It is red, my shawl is
I chose that color especially
I wanted something bright
Black would have given away my grief
I drape it around my shoulders
loosely at first
So as the droop won't show
But then, I wrap it round tightly
So as to hold in my broken heart
My shawl of grief often falls to the floor
My shoulders droop
My broken heart revealed
A Prayer of Thanks and
of Healing for Adam
By: Barbara Gilliland
"Dear Loving Lord,
we could never thank our military men and women enough for their courageous
service and sacrifices to our country and its people.
We lift them up to You Lord
in our prayers of gratitude,
in our prayers for healing,
in our prayers for comfort,
in our prayers for peace,
in our prayers for prosperity and,
in our prayers for your guidance and presence in their lives.
Father God, we pray that Adam,
as recipient of this lap robe will be ever mindful of Your love and Your mercy,
that he will feel the many prayers for him that are crocheted into this robe.
Please Lord, reach Your strong yet gentle hands down to comfort Adam and to heal him.
Let him know that through You, all things are possible." Amen
"........I will heal my people and let them enjoy abundant peace and security."
Jeremiah 33: 6b
Let HIS Spirit Move You
Composed by W. Paffenroth
Let HIS Spirit move you, each and every day,
Let it help move you out along your way.
When things do not happen, just the way they should,
Let me be accepting, and turn it to the good.
When life takes me down a road, I do not want to go,
Give me strength to continue on, and see what I should know.
And take your spirit in me, make it flourish and grow,
Continue to guide me, as that spirit flows.
Pick me up each day; keep a prayer in my heart,
I know you are with me, for we will never part.
And this hug I was given, in the form of a shawl,
Will remind me of you God, Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall.
I’m not to waste a moment, of the life you have given me,
Let me spread the Good Word, to all who can hear and see.
Thank you for this gift of love, I will hold it in my soul.
For your love is always there and makes me feel whole.
Amen
Prayer for Shawl Maker and Receiver of the Shawl
Composed by W. Paffenroth
Dear God,
As I make this shawl for one of your lambs, please….
Bless my hands – that will start with nothing and create something warm & comforting.
Bless my mind- that I will create something useful,
Bless my imagination – that I will design something unique & beautiful,
Bless my heart – that some of it will go with this hug to let the receiver know it was made with love,
Bless my patience – that I will continue to move forward & focused on this gift until I am finished,
Bless my soul – that it is open to continue to make gifts for those in need,
Bless my family & friends – who encourage me to continue making these gifts that give hope, faith & love,
Bless the one that receives this gift. May it help them to remind them of your love each time they wrap it around their soul.
And, Thank you for blessing me with the ability to make these hugs that warm someone.
Let it bring some healing or joy to those who need it & be a reminder that someone cares.
Thank you for the opportunity to share your love each day.
Amen
SERVICE PRAYER
I pray to thee Lord, Our Father,
to guide and protect our servicemen and women,
who fight for freedom.
Bless their families, whose thoughts are constantly
with their loved ones.
Let those in command be guided by your hand
to make the right and decent decisions.
Give them all strength and endurance to come through
these trying times with grace and dignity.
And for those that you call home to you, Our Father,
we pray that their families will feel your
warm hand of love and understanding.
Amen
James D. Paffenroth
Composed in 1991 –age 13- During the Gulf War
As an assignment for Confirmation Class
Now currently a Lt. in the USN (2009)
Served in Iraq 7/2006- 5/2007
Wendy Paffenroth includes a copy of this prayers with the 'red white and blue' shawls
she makes for a service Mom or wife.
IN LOVING MEMORY OF
MARIE (VENEROSE) BERTOLINE
December 8, 1943 - December 29, 2009
A dear and treasured friend and member of the
Prayer Shawl Ministry at St. Joseph’s Church, Poquonock, CT
"Forever Changed"
Author: Anonymous
We seem to take for granted
the important things in life.
Like loved ones, friends or family,
Maybe a husband or a wife.
We think they will always be there
no matter what we do.
But now I know that isn't so, I'm
"Forever Changed" because of you.
I no longer take for granted
the things I hold so dear,
I cherish every moment
I have my loved ones near.
We never, ever know just when
our time on earth is through.
I knew instantly that I would be
"Forever Changed" because of you.
No, my life will never be the same
as it always was before,
When you were still a part of earth
Before you knocked on Heaven's door.
And when your knock was answered
and the Angels welcomed you,
God knew right then my life would be,
"Forever Changed" because of you.
Thoughts submitted by: Darlene Kennedy
Gracious and loving Father, we come before You tonight our hearts are filled with sadness because our dear, dear friend Marie is no longer with us. We rejoice that she is now safe in Your arms, in the company of the angels and saints that have gone before her. Thank You for giving us the honor and privilege of calling Marie our friend and Christian sister. Thank You for blessing us with her smile and her laughter, thank You for the way she could light up any room she walked into by just being there. Thank You for her kindness show to us all in so many, many different ways. Thank You for her example of selflessness, even during the difficult days she never wanted to draw attention to herself but was always concerned about what was going on in our lives. Thank You for her example of courage and strength and her ability to look ahead to better days, never dwelling on her illness. Father thank You for giving us this very special and dear friend, allow a part of her to live on in us. We think of her devoted and loving family, her husband, Al, her daughters, Lisa, Kristin and Candice, her sons-in-law and her precious grandchildren. You know a part of their heart and soul is empty right now. Wrap Your loving arms around them and fill them with Your love and Your Spirit of peace. Give them strength for the difficult days ahead. Help us as we honor Marie’s memory to follow her example of bringing light and joy to those around us. We know that Marie does not want anyone to be sad, but to know her is to love her and we do so miss her presence in our earthly lives. Thank you for Marie’s faith and help us to remain in our faith until we meet her again at the feet of Jesus. In Jesus’ precious name, AMEN
The Yarn’s Journey
© 2025 All Rights Reserved
By: Tish Hoar
As the yarn's journey starts,
It becomes a prayer that comes from the shawl maker's heart,
The yarn becomes a journey of silent prayer,
Through its twists and knots, the prayer is still there,
The quiet clicking or the swish of the yarn,
Tells you the prayer is still going on,
The Shawl maker adds on another skein,
The prayer is anew and doesn't wane,
As time goes by and the shawl maker's mind sometimes wanders,
The yarn goes on and prayerfully ponders,
A prayer is said, and the stitching subsides,
The yarn comes to an end and is knotted and tied,
It begins a new journey and given with prayer,
It's Hope, Faith and Love the recipient wears,
But in the silent echoes you can prayerfully hear,
The prayers, the quiet clicking, and the swish of the yarn,
The yarn never ceases and its silent prayers are still going on...
A PRAYER FOR GOD’S BLESSINGS ON PRAYER SHAWLS AND BLANKETS
Written by: The Reverend David D. Bicking
Heavenly Father, you sent your Son to heal our brokenness with your love. We give you thanks for those inspired by that love to create these gifts of caring for those in need. We offer these shawls and blankets, filled with the prayers and hopes of those who have made them, for our brothers and sisters who are sick of in sorrow. We ask you to bless these shawls and blankets with your love and healing grace, so they may bring comfort and healing strength to those who receive them as signs of your presence in their lives and ours. We ask all of this through your Son, Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit continues to love and sustain all of us in this life and the next.
Song Lyrics:
You knit us together though far apart,
A fabric of beauty, of warmth and art,
So bind us together, through time and through space
To grow into your garment of grace
To wrap the world in love’s Embrace
You knit us together, all shapes and size,
The fabric you make is your great Surprise
So bind us together, through time and through space
To grow into your garment of grace
To wrap the world in love’s Embrace
You knit us together, all shades and hue
The gold of our joy and our sorrow’s blue
So bind us together, through time and through space
To grow into your garment of grace
To wrap the world in love’s Embrace
You knit us together, to serve and share
The wounds that we bind show your healing care
So bind us together, through time and through space
To grow into your garment of grace
To wrap the world in love’s Embrace
You knit us together, your seamless robe
To care and to comfort, around the globe
So bind us together, through time and through space
To grow into your garment of grace
To wrap the world in love’s Embrace
You knit us together in so many ways
To live with each other, and sing your praise.
So bind us together, through time and through space
To grow into your garment of grace
To wrap the world in love’s Embrace
By Anna Briggs, South Liverpool, England
Knit & Natter Group - Knitting People Together
July 2008
Tune: Mayenziweanna
Shawl Card - to be attached to a completed shawl
A skein of yarn is a fine thing
But not very warm or comforting
So with a prayer to guide my hand
I crocheted/knitted this shawl strand by strand
For You
When you wrap this shawl around you
And feel the need of a prayer – or two
May you know the encircling Love of the Lord
And feel the healing of His Word
For All
And please remember, you are Loved
Not only by the Lord above
But connected through the hearts of friends
Like a skein of yarn that never ends
For Ever
Made by:
Prayer Shawl Ministry
First Presbyterian Church of Branchville
Prayer written by: Mike Opilla
Prayer Shawl
by Joan Schneider
Just a simple prayer shawl
Made with prayers for you
To cover you with blessings
For times you're going through.
I pray that wrapped around you
You'll feel our Savior's arms
Holding you and loving you
And keeping you from harm.
"...and lo, I am with you always..."
Matthew 28:20
All God's creature. . . . Great and small,
We even need a little prayer too.
We get sick, lonely and feel unwanted too,
God created us, so we know we are loved by the Lord.
We help comfort humans when they need it.
We give unconditional love with all our being.
All we ask in return is love and a prayer.
Amen
Written by: Sherri L. Wyatt
I am an animal lover, especially cats. Some of my friends are also animal lovers.
I try to make a scrapbook of the shawls I make for people and also their pets.
I designed a small shawl for both cat and small dogs. The spirit moved me to write
this prayer to go with the pet shawls.
In 2006, our prayer shawl ministry was begun.
Sally Andrick received our very first one.
We found out that pink means friendship, and green is healing.
It adds to the shawls a special warm feeling.
We've made shawls scarlet and gray for OSU.
We even made one in that “school up north's” maize and blue.
We try to give a favorite color if we have one on hand.
We've given some to people who think purple's really grand.
We started small, just slowly, going on our way.
We never would have survived without Joan McVay.
Others have joined and began to crochet.
We have given out 185 shawls, as of today.
Nancy Rutan makes our special angel hang tags.
A message to the recipient is included in the attached bags.
We don't have regular meetings, we just work by ourselves.
We store our shawls and yarn on the parlor cupboard shelves.
There have been donations of yarn which we need for
succeeding,
Always check the cupboard for a color you are needing.
To Elinor, Beverly, Nancy, Linda, Roberta, and Sharon, we
appreciate what you do.
To our friends at Parkview, for your prayers and support, we
thank you.
If you like to crochet, knit, or sew, just give us a try.
Some of us are using looms which are not expensive to buy.
If you know of someone with a joy or who needs a prayer,
Take them a shawl and our love with them share.
J.L.Dodson
Parkview United Methodist Church
Columbus, OH
www.parkviewumc-columbus.org
Prayer for the Caretaker
Hold me up a little Longer, Lord, For I am tired. The day seems endless and I still have hours to go.
Give me the strength to put a smile on my face and to be tolerant.
When the weariness begins to overcome me, put a happy memory in my mind. Take me back for a brief moment
when I found JOY, LAUGHED, SMILED AND FELT CAREFREE.
Help me to find patience and understanding. Let me show gratitude, as you have asked us to help each other,
and it is my turn to do just that. Let my touch be gentle and kind---as someday I, too, may be the one needing the care.
When things feel impossible, let me wrap this beautiful shawl, that I was given, around my shoulders and feel your
warm hand of love and understanding. Let me remember that you will not give me burdens that are too heavy that
WE CANNOT carry together.
Be by my side, Lord and help me over this rough patch in my life. Let me look for the rainbow that shines after
the storm. Let me remember that the flowers bloom after the rain and the clouds pass by.
God, please bless the person I am caring for. Let them feel your gift of peace and help them on this journey in their life.
Let their soul feel your love each and every day.
Tonight, when I lay my head on my pillow, please grant me a restful slumber. Restore my strength, so that I may
face the new day refreshed and ready for any challenge that comes before me. Thank you for being by my side.
AMEN
Composed by Wendy Lee Paffenroth- Prayer Shawl Ministry, First Presbyterian Church, Goshen NY
Compassionate God, you have blessed us with the gifts of the work of our hands.
For this we give you thanks and praise.
Through the shawls we have prepared, your gifts of love and care
have been given to those who have received these shawls
in their time of need.
We now remember each of these people held in your love.
We ask for your continued blessing on these special people and
on all who are witnesses of your love to them by their support and love.
May their strength and trust in your love be renewed each day.
We pray with hearts filled with thanks and praise. Amen.
By Marguerite Samz, OSM
Servite Center for Life
Ladysmith, WI
Dear Precious Avelyn,
Every stitch of this Prayer Shawl represents prayers for your life from this day forward.
…Prayers for you health, your joy, and your peace.
Eagerly awaiting your arrival are wonderful, loving Christian parents who are going to
learn their parenting skills from you. Please be patient with them! Excited grandparents
are counting the days until they can hold you in their arms and confirm their beliefs that
you truly do look like their side of the family. Great-grandparents patiently wait their turn,
knowing the protocol. Aunts, uncles, and cousins are already planning the games they will
teach you, the books they will read to you, and the places they will show you. They will
add spice to your life. Many, many friends are sharing the joy of this anticipation, and they
will add another dimension of love to your life.
I pray that when you are wrapped in this shawl that the softness will comfort you, and if
you decide to drag it about as you grow older, I hope it will provide security and happiness.
You are blessed beyond measure that our loving Heavenly Father has given you all these things.
May He help all of us to be just what He needs us to be for you from the very beginning of your life and every day afterward.
I love you, Maw
Written by: Joy Hayes in 2014
In celebration of her great-granddaughter
Prayer Shawl Advent Candle Lighting
Adapted by: Nancy Hughes
Original prayer from Shawls of Hope Candle Lighting
Written By: Helen Knowles - used with permission
http://www.shawlsofhope.piczo.com
We have entered the Season of Advent, known for candle lighting ceremonies & symbolism.
I offer to you the lighting of five candles. Each candle has a symbolic message of a significant aspect to shawl ministry and its participants.
First Candle
On an Advent wreath the first candle is the candle of Hope. With Christians around the world, we use this light to prepare our hearts and minds for the coming of God's son, Jesus Christ.
Our first candle is for the light we as a ministry shine on shawl recipients & those who have not yet been identified.
This year our shawls have provided light to the following families and individuals:
( We entered the names here)
Prayer: Lord, Grant that the light of your love for us will help us become lights in the lives of those around us. Prepare our hearts for the Hope of Jesus.
Second Candle
The second is the candle of Peace. It's a reminder that Jesus brings Peace to all who trust him.
We light this candle for potential recipients and their families. For those who have not been identified. We offer Peace, comfort and warmth to the sick, bereaved and troubled.
Prayer: May the recipients that receive our shawls feel the Peace of Jesus in their shawl throughout the coming year.
Third Candle
This is the candle of Joy.
We light this candle for the Joy that Prayer shawl ministry provides. This ministry has been witnessed around the world. Shawls are received by persons with different backgrounds. Our joy is that recipients have experienced the hope and peace that shawls provide.
Prayer:
It brings us joy to fill the hearts of some who do not know you. We provide a garment that is blessed by prayers, that surrounds them with your grace and comfort.
Fourth Candle
This is the candle of Love. What love God provides us! Advent is a time for kindness, thinking of others, and sharing with others. It is a time to love as God loved us by giving us a precious gift. As God is love, let us be loved also.
We light this candle for the love shown by our participants. Whether it be crocheting or knitting. Each pair of hands is working to serve our ongoing ministry and serving others.
Prayer:
Teach us to love. May we always follow Christ's footsteps, so we may know your love and show it in our lives. Fill our hearts with love for the world, that all may know your love.
Fifth Candle
This is the Christ candle
The time for waiting is over; Our Lord is born.
Now we light the Christ candle to remind us of God's gifts. Hope, Peace, Joy and Love.
Each of these is an ingredient to successful ministry. Each of you provided all of these. Your hands have worked tirelessly. Your finished work has shown to many that there is Hope in Jesus. Peace by God. Joy in serving others. Love of the known and unknown.
You are the light of hope. the comfort and warmth of peace. In your community & around the world bringing joy into the lives of the bereaved, ill and troubled. The Love of Jesus shows throughout your work
Prayer:
Loving & generous God, we thank you for the opportunity of sharing in this beautiful ministry. For unique opportunities to work, learn & pray together as we express your love and concern for others. Bless the fellowship we share, the work of our hands and talents to benefit your people. Grant them your comfort, hope and Love.
A Prayer for Comfort and Warmth
By: Michael Brandon
http://www.prayers-for-special-help.com
Loving God, bless these hands. Guide them as only you can.
In my hands you have placed so much responsibility.
Bless each stitch and weave, each movement is yours.
I am your servant. I am a tool at your disposal.
Give me the strength to do right in your name.
Forgive me if I falter, or fall short. You give me comfort and warmth with your word.
Help me to comfort others with these hands, and lead my heart towards grace.
Knit yarn of prayer
Mother God's enfolding arms
Nestled in her bosom
Ever consoling
St. Francis would bless our hands
Shawls of love's comfort
With gestures and deeds
St. Catherine sued for peace
Initiative!
Invisible prayer
Made manifest by knitter's hand
Wrapping up in love
What's uttered and felt
Those heartsung prayers I sing
Now draped on your shoulders
Haiku Poems by: Lori Schoot
The Shawl That Covers All
By: Edwina Doyle
Church of the Savior in Lexington, Kentucky
“. . . and lo, I am with you always,
even to the end of the age” (Matt. 28:20)
Lord, since You are always in command,
please guide us with Your holy hand.
We are humble, but You are great.
Bless our hands as we create.
As You weave us into sisterhood,
use us to plant eternal good.
As we craft skein after skein,
may our devotion never wane.
As we labor on garments of grace,
hold us in Your loving embrace.
We lift up those who will wear this shawl
and ask Your blessings to cover them all.
Cradle them in hope and healing;
help us know what they are feeling.
May this mantle of prayerful might
comfort them throughout the night.
Bless this symbol of a well-knit soul;
it’s Your love that will make them whole.
We finish this shawl with heart-felt prayer
and present it to You with loving care.
In Jesus’ Name We Pray,
Amen
Knitter's Prayer Shawl Poem Crochet Prayer Shawl Poem
Anonymous Anonymous
A single strand of yarn A single strand of yarn
Two needles straight and true A crochet hook to pull it through
Weaving up the patterns Weaving up the patterns
While offering prayers for you While offering prayers for you
So wrap this shawl around you So wrap this shawl around you
Let Jesus draw you near Let Jesus draw you near
For it's His arms in stitches For it's His arms in stitches
Ever holding you secure Ever holding you secure
It is important to us that the origins of this ministry be honored. We have worked diligently to keep this
ministry a 'grass-roots' effort. These shawls are meant to be given away unconditionally and NOT to be sold.
If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact us at shawlministry@yahoo.com
Click here to submit your prayers for consideration.
