Deacon Connie Lorenz holds the latest prayer shawl as Father Joseph Pae blesses it before it is given to the recipient. The Prayer Shawl Ministry of The Cathedral of the Incarnation has busily been knitting and crocheting shawls for those in need. Over 150 prayer shawls have been completed. These shawls have been blessed and sent on to bring comfort to those in physical and spiritual need.

Throughout the centuries, shawls have been a symbol of an inclusive, unconditionally loving, God. They wrap, enfold, comfort, cover, give solace, mother, hug, shelter and beautify. Therefore, the mission of the Prayer Shawl Ministry is to create a shawl prayerfully for a recipient. When the shawl is completed it is offered a final prayer before being sent along its way. Thus, care and the love of knitting/crocheting have been combined into a prayerful ministry that reaches out to those in need of comfort and solace. Most of the work is done at home. However the group meets in community on the second Sunday of the month after the 9:15 a.m. service in the undercroft chapel of the Cathedral. Working in community is important because it provides an opportunity to share, and to learn from each other. Sometimes the company of others helps to make progress on a project. Beginners and experienced knitters as well as those who crochet are welcome to join in this ministry. You do not need to be a member of the Cathedral of the Incarnation to participate. Also, if you know of anyone in need of the comfort or solace of a prayer shawl, please contact the Prayer Shawl Ministry with your request.

For more information about the Prayer Shawl Ministry, please contact Deacon Connie Lorenz through the Cathedral Office at 516 746-2955.