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Prayer Shawl Ministry
6/5/05
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During our worship service today, Pastor Joy offered a Dedication of Shawls segment. The
following was transcribed from a recording of the service.
"Friends, this spring, Jane Butler gathered together a group of Evergreeners and began a
Shawl Ministry. They made shawls. They knitted them, they crocheted them... made them
as a way to share an expression of Christian love and comfort. I understand at this point
they have completed five of them. They are lovely. And so this morning they are offering
them to be dedicated to the ministry of Jesus Christ in the world. So will you pray with me
the prayer of dedication."
As we dedicate these shawls to God, let us pray: Gentle Savior, when your earthly days were
over, the Father sent us your Spirit to be our comforter and constant companion. We pray that
these shawls, made by willing hands and caring hearts, will be visible signs of Your comfort and
presence. Through their warmth and texture, may the shawls remind those who receive them of
your tender mercy and grace. Through their beauty and design, may they keep those who use
them mindful of your care and presence each day of their lives. Lord Jesus, bless those who
made these shawls and those who receive them. We dedicate these shawls to your Glory as we
re-dedicate ourselves to the ministry of sharing Your great Love with the world. Amen." |
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As Pastor Joy was taken by total surprise, Jane makes the first shawl presentation:
"There's symbolism in this shawl. The stitches on each row are divisible
by three, so we have the image of the trilogy. The colors represent: aqua is
for courage; blue is for healing, meditation and tranquility; and green represents clarity
and renewal. It is with much love that our Prayer Shawl Ministry and our congregation
wrap you with our love and God's love."
Jane then invited anyone present to step forward and stand within a group while praying.
It was a moment in time and of grace that will not be forgotten. |
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Donna Banks, our Ministerial Intern, lead us in prayer: "Dear Lord, in celebration of this
Shawl Ministry, we ask Your blessing on this shawl made for Joy with love. For we ask that
this shawl be a gentle reminder of her friends at Evergreen and their love for her. Your
love is shared, Joy. You're gifted in healing. You're generous and faithful.
You are knitted together by the Creator, who binds us with you always, and those who find your
touch. May this shawl be useful for fun, for making decisions, for comfort, for warmth and for
strengthening you. May love and blessings flow from you and this shawl together to touch this
world we're in. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen." |
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