"You created my inmost self, knit me together in my mother's womb.
For so many marvels I thank you; a wonder am I,
and all your works are wonders."
Psalm 139 New Jerusalem Bible

The Prayer Shawl Ministry started at Brooklyn in January 2003.  Many different people work on making the prayer shawls.  The knitters often report that the rhythmic motion of the needles helps to quiet their minds and draws them to prayer and meditation.

Praying With a Prayer Shawl

A prayer shawl is intended to be a reminder of God's ever present love which is as near to you as your own body is to your spirit.  It is a gift for every time and every occasion--joyful or sorrowful, for every season and circumstance of life--chosen or unchosen, when you are weeping or when you are celebrating.

Wear it in times of private prayer.  Let it rest on your shoulders as you work or play or read or rest.  Wear it to worship.  Wear it whenever you are drawn to prayer or when you have no interest in prayer but would like to be reminded of God's loving presence and care.

Wear the shawl however you like.  Drape it lightly across your shoulders.  Wrap yourself tightly in it or wear it on your head.  Cover yourself with it as you rest.  Keep it on your favorite chair.

At times you may cling to a prayer shawl because you are clinging to God; you may not want to be far from it.  At other times you will touch it only occasionally.  You may want to keep it always; or someday you may feel prompted by God to pass it on to someone else.

May you grow in your awareness of God's blessing, resting upon you in all places and at all times, enabling you to be God's person in the world.

Prayer Shawl Prayer

May this shawl be for me a sign of your loving, healing presence.  May it warm me when I am weary; may it surround me with encouragement when I am discouraged.  May May it assure me or your care and comfort when my loved ones and I are in pain.  May it remind me that You love me.  And that I am surrounded by the prayers of others.  

Excerpts from "Praying with a Prayer Shawl" a booklet given along with the shawl.