Augustana's Prayer Shawl Ministry was started in January 2009 as a project of the Women of Augustana. At this date, 5 June 2012, 100 prayer shawls have been completed and blessed and 92 have been given to persons in need of comfort and care or in celebration of a baptism or a wedding.
Three skeins of Lion Brand Homespun yarn and size 13 knitting needles are used, or size “N” crochet hook for crocheters. Michaels and Walmart are stores which carry the Lion Brand yarn. Lion Brand Homespun yarn is Made in the USA!
A Simple Knitting Pattern
Cast on 59 or 60 stitches.
Work in garter stitch — Knit every row
When you have finished two skeins measure the fringes off the third skein, 12 inches long and about 60 per side. Then knit up the rest of the yarn to complete the shawl. Add the fringes.
A Simple Crocheting Pattern
Loosely chain about 43 stitches.
Row 1 Half-double crochet in third chain from hook and in each chain across.
Repeated row Chain 2, turn. Half-double crochet in each half-double crochet across.
When you have finished two skeins measure the fringes off the third skein, 12 inches long and about 60 per side. Then knit up the rest of the yarn to complete the shawl. Add the fringes.
Prayers to say while knitting or crocheting…
Dear Heavenly Father,
Be with the person who will wear this shawl.
Comfort and console them as you hold them in your healing presence.
May this shawl be a sign of your love and grace.
May this shawl bring warmth when they are weary.
May it surround them.
May it cover them with love to ease their pain and suffering.
See also these articles in the Grace Note.