More on Prayer Quilt Ministries

The first prayer quilt ministry is that of a church in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
This ministry is older than the one at my church by several years, and while the intent of the ministry is similar, the way it operates is very different.
First, a quilt is not even begun until they learn of a need or until one has been requested.
All the quilts are made using an identical pattern or set.  The quilts are composed of rows of squares, 5- or 6-inch squares, if I remember correctly.  Each quilt can be assembled in a little more than an hour.
The quilts are not bound, but are just layered and then turned right side out.
The maker inserts a length of yarn or a very narrow ribbon at the corners of each block, through all layers. Then ends of the yarn or ribbon are left on the front and are long enough to tie a bow.
A label is pinned on the quilt, stating who will receive it.
During the church service in which the quilts are blessed/commissioned, each person who lays hands on the quilt and prays for the recipient ties one bow and then moves on to pray over another quilt and tie a bow for that one.

When we asked one of the leaders of that prayer quilt group to come share with us, she was pretty insistent that that was how the quilts had to be done. All the materials for their quilts were donated.

I'm guessing that every group making prayer quilts has similarities to and differences from our group.  Given the diversity in the world, that seems appropriate.

The other prayer quilt group of which I have knowledge, albeit very limited, is that of a Southern Baptist Church in a little town near Nashville, Tennessee.  You can see frequent evidence of this ministry's work at Confessions of a Fabric Addict.  (Sarah sponsors the weekly "Whoop Whoop" linky party.)

Sara has graciously allowed me to post pictures of one of their prayer quilts.  This prayer quilt was made when fifteen members of their ministry got together on a Saturday and made a Jacob's Ladder quilt for a special lady.

I especially love the back of the quilt where they penned Bible verses, Christian song lyrics, encouraging words, and even some drawings.

I'm certain there are many, many variations on these themes, dependent upon the needs of the people being served and the people participating in the ministries.

I love that we are able to support others and grow our own faith through our prayers and the work of our hands and hearts.

Happy quiltmaking.....