Ministries
The Prayer Shawl Ministry of Block Island
Started by St. Ann’s in 2008, this is truly an Ecumenical group. We meet at the Harbor Baptist Church, Ladies Parlor on the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. and are comprised of women from all faiths and denominations.
We begin with an opening prayer, knit contemplatively, and end with a closing prayer. After a shawl is completed, it is passed around our circle and each woman will lay hands on the shawl and bless it with a prayer. Each shawl also has a tag with the recipients name, who knitted the shawl, and a little blessing. The shawl can also be blessed by a Minister or Rabbi as well.
Giving away a shawl has certain ritual elements to it. Many people develop formal rituals for this; others are more casual. Often, shawls are wrapped in tissue paper and tied with a strand of leftover yarn.
We recommend a wonderful book “Knitting into the Mystery” by Susan S. Jorgensen and Susan S. Izard. “In a time when war is destroying what we hold dear and the world is in chaos, you receive peace that you may be peace. You receive love that you may be love. You receive healing that you may heal. You receive affirmation that you may affirm. Be mindful. Be prayerful. Welcome the Mystery.”
To knit a traditional prayer shawl, 3 skeins of Lion Brand Homespun are required. [Or you can experiment with yarns]. Using size 11 needles, cast on 63 stitches; size 13 needles, cast on 57 stitches. The pattern is Knit 3 Pearl 3 across each row. When you turn your work, begin with Knit 3 Pearl 3. This will give you a modified seed stitch pattern. Save about ½ skein for the fringe, if you desire.
Here is a good website about the Prayer Shawl Ministry.
For more information about the Prayer Shawl Ministry of Block Island, call St. Ann’s 466-2911 or email: saintannsbythesea@verizon.net
Block Island, RI 02807