The Prayer Shawl Ministry of the First Congregational Church, Lebanon,Connecticut, began in May 2003.  We work on shawls all year although our group does not have a regular meeting date. When we do get together it is to share shawl stories and ideas, work on our current shawls together, and share fellowship and (of course) food!  Most shawls are knitted and some are crocheted.  When we have shawls completed and ready to be given away, we place them on the communion table on a Sunday morning so other shawl makers will see them. This is a silent signal to gather following worship for a shawl blessing.  We also like to have the shawls be a part of the worship service to absorb all the wonderful spirituality and energy in our sanctuary.  It's especially heartwarming to see people touch the shawls on their way to fellowship time and to hear their comments - it's like an extra blessing.  

The shawl ministry is an ever-expanding ministry around the globe. As this ministry has grown, so have the variations on the original 'Knit 3, Purl 3' pattern, and the yarns and embellishments used to personalize shawls.  The official website for the shawl ministry is www.shawlministry.com, and we encourage you to visit that site for complete information and the latest news of events, tips, messages, and other information and links.  Another wonderful resource on the shawl-knitting ministry is the book Knitting into the Mystery by Susan Izard and Susan Jorgensen.  This book tells the story of the history of the shawl ministry and also has pattern and yarn information, as well as blessings and prayers and stories.  

With thankfulness for the blessings,

The Prayer Shawl Makers

For information on our ministry, please call the church office at        860-642-6179. 

 "He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge."

                                                                           ~ Psalm 91:4