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This fall a friend of mine started a prayer shawl ministry. So I picked up some yarn and crochet hooks and started re-learning how to crochet. Now I’m hooked! Pun intended. I have been working on something ever since. There always seems to be someone needing prayer and comfort. But I never expected it to be a colleague from my past.
Ten years ago I was teaching at an Episcopal elementary school. When I left the school, I lost contact with many of my colleagues. That was not intentional, of course, but it happens, especially when I live in a different area than the school. Just after Thanksgiving, I got an odd friend request on FB from the sister of one of my former co-teachers. We taught third grade together for 5 or so years. I remembered her sister, so I accepted the request. That’s when I saw her recent posts about Stacey’s breast cancer and chemo treatments. I immediately messaged Stacey’s sister and emailed Stacey.
We really should not wait for tragedy or illness to get in touch with former friends, but sometimes that’s what it takes. I knew I needed to crochet a shawl for her. I had just purchased some blue yarn and was unsuccessfully attempting a scarf. Switch perspective and it became a shawl–for Stacey.
I love this ministry. I can meditate while I stitch. I can say a mantra, a prayer, or merely count my double-crochets, but I am present in the moment doing something for someone else.
The shawl carries with it this presence. I know Stacey felt it as soon as she put it on. Her tired face perked up, and she began to glow. Stacey still has quite a battle ahead of her, five (out of 8) rounds of chemo left and then surgery. With the shawl on her shoulders, she will know the hope that God offers and the love of a longtime friend.
Stacey wrapped in the prayer shawl and her daughter, Erin.
Why Knot? is the clever name my husband has given our ministry. He says it will start a conversation. I agree. Why knot?
Reflections on the Teche 
What a beautiful story about the power of prayer! I wish I knew how to crochet or knit, so I could participate in a prayer shawl ministry. My church has one too. What a comfort you provide! Praying for healing for your friend Stacey!
I agree with Michelle! What a special ministry and way to pray for people! I would love to participate in something like this!
What a lovely story. It is true that we often wait to long to connect with others. So glad the shawl has given hope. I would be very interested in learning more – I have seen knit versions but I crochet and would love the pattern so I could take part.
Margaret, your caring attitude has allowed you to be a difference maker in so many people’s lives through your Why Knot ministry. May each stitch bring you closer to humanity.
Oh Margaret, this is beautiful. That shawl is beautiful and I know you’re right that your old friend can feel the love and your prayers wrapped around her. I will keep her in my thoughts today.
You will be weaving so much good will and hope into these shawls, Margaret. A beautiful ministry.
I concur. We shouldn’t wait to reach out to those we miss from our past. I recently reached out to an old camp friend and was glad I did.
I love this! I also love to crochet. Do I see a prayer shawl ministry in my future…
I have been participating in our prayer shawl ministry since it began over 6 years ago. I lost count of the number of shawls that I have crocheted, but the prayers that have been said over each of these shawls and the individuals who have received them have been a blessing not only to them, but to me. Having that shawl wrapped around their shoulders is like God’s arms comforting them.
Beautiful! The recipients will be covered with prayers. Special. Healing.
I’ve heard you speak of this before, Margaret, but this time for a personal reason. I’m sure your friend is so grateful for your shawl. A homemade gift of a shawl really is like a hug, all the time. What a lovely thing.
Why Knot-your name is perfect-a special intention for those in need! this is a very special gift you are offering. I am sure your friend was comforted by the special gift now wrapped around her.
What a lovely post, Margaret! I know your friend will treasure her shawl. I love that, despite all the negatives we hear about social media, you were reunited with your friend through Facebook.
Perfect example of “reaching” out! Prayers for your friend.