Prayer Shawl Ministry

Trinity’s Prayer Shawl Ministry group the third Tuesday of the month at 10:45 AM in Trinity Room 307. Led by Prayer Shawl Ministry group members, these “Learn to Crochet” classes teach crochet to beginners and experienced! If you have questions, please contact Becky Elsbernd at 641-423-0536.

What is a Prayer Shawl?

Prayer shawls are a tangible way to comfort those facing difficulties and a loving reminder of God’s love and presence. There are no specific guidelines for receiving a prayer shawl. Anyone who is in need of prayer, hope, comfort, and love may have a shawl. Prayer shawls are usually knitted or crocheted, but they can also be woven, sewn, quilted, machine-knitted, etc. Patterns and yarn are available at the church. Prayer shawls are available by request for family members or friends. Donations of yarn and/or money to purchase yarn would be appreciated.

The Shawl Makers

On the shawl maker’s part, it is a prayerful process – from the selection of color, the blessing of the yarn and needles, keeping the recipient’s intentions in mind, and saying prayers as they create the shawl. 

At times the recipient is unknown when a prayer shawl is started, but the shawl maker knows that their prayers for healing and hope will go with the shawl as the prayers are literally woven into the shawl.

This ministry of making and giving shawls serves as a gesture of love in difficult times. Both the shawl makers and receivers benefit, and both are aware that the shawls are symbolic of God’s encompassing love. As a result, hearts open, emotional barriers are lifted, and blessings are received.

The Shawl Prayer

A prayer is said when giving the shawl to the recipient:

As I place this shawl over your shoulders, may God give you strength,  faith, health, and love.

We ask that God give this shawl the ability to comfort, the ability to heal, and the ability to give strength where it is needed.

May you know that God is with you always and you are not alone.

You are cared for, loved, and prayed for. We pray that whenever you put this shawl on, that God wraps his loving arms around you to give protection and comfort.

Amen.