Knit a Prayer

 The link to this week's live-streamed service is here.

Once upon a time, in the days before COVID-19, there were many busy knitters at SPPC. They usually worked during Friendship Coffee and produced thousands and thousands of cotton squares which were sent to the Compassionate Warehouse and distributed in Africa. The little squares, when hung in the sun, were sterile enough to be used to clean the eyes of newborns. One of our members loved to knit teddy bears for children in need of a toy or a cuddle. These two were distributed by the CRW.  

Then the pandemic came and friends couldn't gather in groups. The Compassionate Warehouse had to stop accepting donations as they couldn't distribute goods. Life changed.

The good news is that CRW is back up and running. SPPC is collecting goods once more and Friendship Coffee is back on a monthly basis. Brian and Vivien can tell you about both.

However, the busy knitting needles seem to have been packed away and forgotten. 

But if you are a knitter and in need of an easy project, let me suggest a prayer or healing shawl. These are simple to do -- knit three, purl three, for the width of the shawl, then turn and knit the purls and purl the knits. What makes these projects special is the love and prayer that go into every stitch. My friend, who has knit many shawls says they are "like a hug" to the recipient who may be feeling lonely or afraid.

I made one as a trial and gave it to our pastoral care committee to pass along to someone in our congregation who could do with a tangible reminder of our love and care for her. The gift exceeded all expectations.

So, I made another, which is on its way. As well as praying for the recipient while I'm knitting, I write out a little prayer and attach it to the shawl when it is sent off. It is that personal touch, and the reminder that we are all part of the Christian community that makes the shawls special.

The internet abounds with articles about forming knitting clubs for the purpose of making the shawls as a group. Other sites give you patterns and prayer suggestions and yet others will sell you a kit! 

While these resources may be helpful they are not necessary. What matters is that you imbue your work with love and ask God to bless it. Then give it away, trusting that the Holy Spirit will use it for good.

Just a reminder, Anna, Joan, Linda, Norma and Pam are on the pastoral care committee. They'd be glad to accept your knitting project and to supply you with names of possible recipients. More information is available from the office, 250 656-2241