Prayer Shawls

Over the years, shawls have always given us a sense of shelter, peace, and spiritual sustenance. Our members have endeavored to continue this spiritual tradition by knitting or crocheting in prayer and creating a loving, useful, and healing symbol that Hickory Neck then gives as gifts to individuals in times of stress or in need of comfort, strength, encouragement or for celebration. They can wrap themselves in the love of God and Hickory Neck during difficult times.

The clergy provide the reference for each recipient who, along with the shawl or lap robe, receives a personal note from the maker, which reads, in part,This gift was crafted with prayers for your healing in body, mind, and spirit. As you use it, may you feel the warm embrace of the ultimate comforter and healer, our heavenly Father. Each gift is also blessed during a Sunday morning service.

The Prayer Shawl Group, was founded and shepherded by Kathy Ramsaur, After a serious illness, Kathy herself received a handmade shawl from a church group. Its warmth and comfort, along with the inspiring note that accompanied it, helped strengthen her during a troubling time. She decided such a gift merited sharing with others going through fearful experiences. Started in 2007, the group had already grown to 25 before Kathy’s death in 2009. The Prayer Shawl Group has made, blessed, and given over 300 gifts since they began. The group continues to grow, inspired by Kathy’s memory.