When Covid-19 hit the world, there was barley time to make prayer shawls since many people died so quickly. Yet, one cannot deny the blessings bestowed upon those who have received one. No matter what church denomination you are from, you can either crochet or knit a prayer shawl. This ministry began with a group of women who participated in the first Women’s Leadership Institute at Hartford Seminary. One of the members began knitting “healing shawls” for women who were undergoing treatment for breast cancer and other illnesses.
Women have also begun to knit shawls for men who were ill. The men who have received the shawls were very thankful for this gift of healing. These wonderful gifts of love can be found all over the country now. It is amazing how warm these shawls are in a cold environment such as a hospital room.
It does not always have to be shawls but Afghans, such as the Woodland Circle Afghan shown above from Lion Brand. I have crochet two so far. One can use leftover yarn from the shawls to make this circular Afghan. Download the pattern to make this warm blanket.
Now for the four shawls that I am working on at the moment. Yes, four shawls that I am rotating in picking them up and working the pattern either crochet or knitting. I have started them because I myself need a healing touch from God. We all need a blessing in the times we are living in and picking up the crochet or knitting needles to bless someone is the key to helping our own pain and suffering. Of course, one need not be religious to understand grief. One can meditate when making a prayer shawl. Zone out in the garden with a cup of tea crocheting or knitting one of these beautiful shawls.
The first shawl is the easiest shawl to crochet. This is the Serene Comfort Shawl from Lion Brand. It takes three balls of Homespun yarn and only uses a half double crochet stitch throughout the pattern. I plan on starting another one soon just because it was so relaxing to make. I love this soft transition of the color “Parfait” in the Homespun yarn. This yarn is not only soft to the touch but retains the warmth when draped over a person. The yarn is 90% acrylic, and it is machine washable. Beginners can enjoy making this wonderful shawl.
The second shawl is the Tranquil Comfort Shawl that uses the V stitch pattern. I have just started this pattern. The V stitch consist of double crochets and chains. I used the color “Purple Haze.” Just look at this regal color below and see the V stitch within the pattern. This shawl has two sections. The second half of the shawl is worked along the opposite side of the foundation chain. This shawl is great to make during the Spring/Summer season.
The third shawl is the garter stitch knitted pattern. I will post picture later of the garter stitch shawl. I used Homespun yarn in the color “Tudor” shown below in the picture. I casted on 68 stitches onto US size 10 circular 29-inch needles. Knit every row until piece is the length you desire or until it has reached 60 inches. Bind off stitches. Any beginner can make this shawl.
The fourth shawl is the Heartfelt Shawl. This pattern uses the knit and purl stitch. It uses the color “Tudor” homespun yarn. It has a nice graduation of color as shown the picture below and interest in the pattern of the stitches.
Give these patterns a try and have a pile ready for someone who needs the warmth while recovering from illness or surgery. You can make one for yourself to use on days when you feel you need a touch of warmth.
Here is a simple prayer to say;
Bless this yarn and these needles. May this shawl be a sign of your healing presence: May it warm those who are weary, surround those who suffer and encircle those who are in pain. May your gentle touch reach out to heal in the light of Christ. Amen.
NOTE: Prayer shawls can be made with any type of number 5 bulky yarn. Check the stats on the yarn you use. Here is Lion Brand Homespun information.