History of the Prayer Shawl Ministry ~ A group of women who participated in the first Women’s Leadership Institute at Hartford Seminary, Connecticut, began this shawl knitting ministry in 1998. Vicky Galo started knitting shawls for women undergoing treatment for breast cancer and other illnesses. Janet Bristow started knitting shawls for new mothers. Other members of the Institute began knitting shawls for friends, family members and people in need. This ministry has grown not only nationally, but now stretches internationally.
Compassion and the love of knitting/crocheting have been combined into this prayerful ministry and spiritual practice which reaches out to those in need of comfort and solace, as well as celebration and joy. Many blessings are prayed into every shawl. The shawl maker begins with prayers and blessings for the recipient. The intentions are then continued throughout the creation of the shawl. St. Francis of Assisi/ St. Romuald’s Prayer Shawl Ministry began in October 2008.
Due to the increase in COVID cases in our area, the Prayer Shawl Ministry will continue to knit prayer shawls at home and not in person until COVID is under control. We welcome all new members and if you would like a pattern for the prayer shawl sent to you or have any questions, please contact Jean McGair at jean@mcgair.com or 401-783-1633. Completed prayer shawls should be left at the Rectory to be blessed before being passed along to friends and families in need of a prayer shawl. We hope in the near future to meet together again on the 1st Thursday of each month from 7:00 – 8:30 pm, in parish office meeting room. We welcome knitters/ crocheters of all levels.