I have always taken great pleasure in making crochet items for others. I feel it is a great way to show someone you took the time to make something especially for them and put real care into it. There is no greater way to show appreciation or caring then to give something created by you.

A great way to do this is through the prayer shawl ministry. The idea is to knit or crochet a shawl and to pray, think positive thoughts or good wishes while creating the garment. You may also want to play soft music while working your project. The receiver can then "wrap themselves in a prayer" whenever they wear it. Many churches and civic organizations make them for people going through chemo, after the loss of a loved one or any difficulty they may be experiencing as a way to help them through. The stitch pattern should be simple enough that you can continue to think positively or pray while working the shawl.

I think this is a great way to show someone you took the time to take your stitching ability and create something just for them. I encourage everyone to make at least one prayer shawl to give to someone who needs it. There are many sites that can help you find more information about the prayer shawl ministry, as well as a book by Lion Brand: The Prayer Shawl Ministry; Reaching Those in Need. I have listed the sites below and hope you will consider taking on this important project.

Prayer Shawl Sites
http://www.shawlministry.com/
http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/khs-prayerShawl.html
http://www.waitingroomministry.com
http://www.maggiescrochet.com/pages/Crochet_Help/Prayer_Shawl_main.pdf