Wesley United Methodist Prayer and Friendship Shawl Ministry

In May of 2008, two of our United Methodist Women went to a Prayer Shawl gathering hosted by Sycamore United Methodist Church.  Inspired by reports from other groups, they came home and talked about starting a group at Wesley.  In October, eight or so women gathered and two of our UMW members taught the others how to knit and crochet.  Some already knew how and they jumped right in.  By November, the first shawls were finished and were blessed by the group.  In April, the women decided to rename the ministry, The Wesley Prayer and Friendship Shawl Ministry.

Shawls are given with prayers of appreciation and joy, thankfulness and inspiration.
Shawls are given with prayers for healing: physical, emotional and spiritual.
Shawls are given with prayers of support to caregivers.
Shawls are given with prayers for the loss of loved ones.
Shawls are given with prayers of love and caring for anyone.

As of March 16, 2010, seventy-four shawls have been made; 12 of those by non-members of Wesley.  Fifty-four shawls have been given; 14 of those to non-members of Wesley.  Lynne Martin has now made and given six baby shawls.  Donna Doubek has made a number of prayer scarves, two of which have been given.

Since the beginning, 24 people have been involved in delivering shawls, attending meetings, and giving prayers and support.  Eleven of those have knitted or crocheted a variety of shawls.

There have been many heart warming stories of how the gift of a shawl has had an impact on the recipient.

We are thankful for all who have had a part in the Prayer and Friendship Shawl Ministry by knitting, crocheting, performing other duties and for the prayers and support.

If you know someone in need of a prayer shawl, please contact Martha Griffith or Lynne Martin through the church office at 630-896-1033 or This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it

The Shawl Blessing:
And now we pray that these shawls will reach out to those in need of comfort and solace, healing and peace.  We pray that they will affirm friendship and thankfulness, celebration and joy.  We ask for all this under the unconditional embrace of a sheltering and nurturing God.