Prayer    shawl   ministry 

       Compassion and the love of knitting/crocheting are combined into a prayerful ministry and spiritual practice which reaches out to those in need of comfort and solace, as well as in celebration and joy. Many blessings are prayed into every stitch. So, if you enjoy knitting, crocheting, quilting or any other craft, consider making a shawl or stole for the prayer shawl ministry.  These prayer items do not have to be made only by members of Gaddis.  If you have a relative or friend who enjoys handwork, they can help!

      Prayer shawls are handmade - usually knit or crochet.  The process of making the shawl is what distinguishes a prayer shawl from an ordinary shawl.  As it is worked, the crafter will be using their hands and also their mind.  Some people say an actual prayer as they knit (hence the name) but that is not necessary.  The point is that the crafter focuses on the person who might receive it even if you don’t know who that person is.  Some shawls might go to people going through chemo, in nursing homes, hospital patients, folks with mental disorders like Alzheimer's, etc.
If you knit, crochet, or can make small lap quilts, please let Amy at Gaddis (830-995-3813) know.  Prayer shawls are handmade – usually knit or crochet. The process of the making itself is what distinguishes a prayer shawl from any old shawl. As you work on one of these beautiful prayer shawls knitting patterns, you will be using your hands and also your mind. These shawls and lap quilts would be blessed by Pastor Thomas and then they will be presented to people going through tough times.  There are no specific patterns, colors, or styles necessary.  Just some time, talent, and prayers to make these garments special.