No, they’re not shawls for praying…(although you could use one that way). They are shawls that are given to those in need of comfort. The maker (knit or crochet) prayed for the recipient while making the shawl and many shawls are blessed in a church ceremony before being given away. Every time it is worn, the recipient is reminded that they are not alone and that others care deeply for them as God cares for them.
Groups of knitters and crocheters have sprung up all around the country to create prayer shawls as a ministry of love and caring. There are a number of books and a website that give the history of the movement and patterns. But there are free patterns online at Lion Brand Yarn and many churches list their favorite patterns online.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W302tI3P1bc&eurl=http://www.craftstylish.com/item/11018/create-your-own-prayer-shawl&feature=player_embedded]
