St. Mary’s Prayer Shawl Ministry began in September, 2004. Twenty-Five women volunteered their time and talent. Since that first gathering we numerous Prayer Shawls have been made, blessed and given away, and the number of Ministers has more than doubled.

We have given away 1327 shawls to people in Newtown CT., Moore, OK, in all different parts of the world including Australia, Europe and South America. And at home we have donated shawls to Hope Lodge and the Hospice at St. Ann’s in addition to the many parishioners who have requested one for their loved ones.

A prayer shawl can be knitted or crocheted. While being made, the person creating it offers prayers for its future receiver. When completed, the shawl is blessed, and a prayer card with the name of the shawl’s creator is attached, along with a prayer for peace. The recipient is then wrapped in the warmth of the shawl and the prayers of St. Mary’s Community.

Prayer Shawls celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, friendship, love, professional and personal achievements. Shawls console those who are grieving, comfort those who are ill, bring hope to those who are in despair. If one could wear the heartfelt sentiments often found in a greeting card, it would be as a shawl.

If you would like to participate in this Ministry or would like to request a Prayer Shawl, please contact the parish office at 271-7240. There is no charge for the shawls, but donations toward the cost of yarn would be welcomed.