Shawls of Comfort and Joy
Who we are
We are the shawl makers of Cole Harbour Woodside United Church. In June of 2005, while casually looking for knitting patterns on the web, we came across an interesting website about this remarkable ministry. A quick call to the church office, a hastily added item to the agenda of an upcoming church meeting, an inspiring presentation of the philosophy of the ministry to the ladies at this meeting. Fourteen bags of yarn and printed instructions were taken away from the meeting that morning. Four weeks later eighteen beautiful shawls were blessed at the morning service. Word spread fast.So what was this website? Who began this remarkable and inspiring ministry that has touched so many so deeply? Janet Bristow and Victoria Galo, two graduates of the 1997 Women's Leadership Institute at The Hartford Seminary in Hartford, Connecticut, gave birth to the Prayer Shawl Ministry in 1998 when they wanted a tangible way to express their love and prayers for new mothers and for women with breast cancer. The result was a global ministry that has touched the hearts and souls of thousands around the world.
Why we make shawls
The original shawl knit pattern uses a modified seed stitch -- three knits, three purls -- chosen because of the significance of the number three in many religions. This includes the Christian trinity, the unity of mind, body and spirit and the cycle of past, present and future to name but a few.The pattern is meant to be meditative, so one can knit without thinking about it. With its soothingly repetitive motions, it provides a subtle meditation rhythm, a mantra, putting the knitter at peace. This type of knitting is not an obligation. It is, rather, a gift of love. This calming effect often benefits the giver as much as the recipient by soothing the soul and providing some calm in the chaos of modern day life. Its very nature helps one to slow down and listen, to connect with the works of our hands, to simply be still and quiet. Some shawls are made beside a meditative candle with soft music in the background. Others are created amidst the busyness of everyday life — in the car, by a television set, at a hockey or soccer game, during meetings. God’s love is still in every stitch.
By the time a shawl is completed, it has been filled with prayers. It gives not only physical warmth but also spiritual comfort.
Why we give shawls
There are countless reasons for giving a shawl. As a comfort when undergoing medical procedures.....after a loss, or during bereavement or other difficult times......to celebrate a marriage, a birth or adoption, graduation......leaving home, or to express heartfelt thanks and appreciation.... There are endless possibilities! Both for comfort and for joy.Cole Harbour Woodside United Church
15 Bissett Road
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia B2V 2T1
Phone: (902) 434-7714
Fax: (902) 434-2901
www.chwuc.com
