Leeds Central Prayer Shawl knitters offer comforting hug

Knitters from Leeds Central Salvation Army have offered comfort and an uplifting hug to more than a thousand people in the form of lovingly handcrafted prayer shawls. 

The church and charity’s Prayer Shawl Ministry brings people together to knit shawls, scarves and prayer squares, which are then blessed and delivered to those who may be going through a tough time, such as struggling with illness or loss, or celebrating an important life event. 

Now in its 15th year, Prayer Shawl Ministry, led by Gill Crocker and Penny Cousins, has distributed 1,561 shawls so far. 

As Leeds Central Salvation Army celebrates its 150th birthday this year, the group have been busy knitting prayer squares, a small square with a cross and card within, for each member of the congregation. 

Major Nicola Barker, who leads Leeds Central Salvation Army with her husband Major Michael, said: “They are a lovely group who have knitted hundreds of prayer shawls since the ministry started. They will knit for people they know are struggling and for the happier life events like having a baby dedicated or a wedding. When we enrolled 18 junior soldiers (members) last year, each soldier got one. 

“I took one to someone in hospital over Christmas as her family were all in Australia and couldn’t visit her. I met her on a particularly difficult day, but the shawl gave her a lot of comfort. I also heard a story from someone who asked the anaesthetist if she could hold her prayer square in her hand during lifesaving surgery. There are hundreds of stories like that; the group have got folders of cards that have been sent from people saying thank you and that they feel blessed. 

“It’s very much a ministry. We always pray together, light a candle, talk about who we’ve given them to, and share any thanks that have been received in return. Each item is blessed before being sent out. The fact that it’s been thought about and prayed over means so much to people when they're going through something, even those that are not of faith get something out of that.” 

Prayer squares are put out in the foyer of the Nile Street church and community hall for members of the public to take home with them. Each one has a note reading ‘Each stitch has been prayed into and is a reminder of God’s great love for you.’ 

Nicola continued: “We have to keep refilling the basket because so many people have taken one. It's a very tactile thing, just to have in your pocket as a comfort.” 

The group, which was launched by Sylvia Patterson and Joyce Holdsworth in honour of Major Florence Ryder, who used to be leader at Leeds Central Salvation Army, also gives knitters the chance to socialise, helping to forge friendships and tackle loneliness and isolation.

Salvation Army volunteer knitters Daphne and Jean have both received prayer shawls, and love to give back by knitting for others.

Daphne said: “People take comfort in the idea that someone is thinking of them and doing that for them. Jean knitted one for me before I was part of the group and I felt very moved by it. 

“I’m a very slow knitter, but I come to the group because I enjoy it. I’m there for the company. There’s a special cheer when I finish one as it takes me so long!”   

Jean said: “When my mum died, I was one of the first to get one and I still have it tied around my bedpost. Knowing people were praying for me in a time of need meant a lot.

“They have gone all over the world through members of The Salvation Army. Even if we’re not meeting these people, we’re connecting to them. 

“We used to have a football team here and we knitted football scarves in Salvation Army colours. We have done lots of projects over the years. Recently we sent some to the Salvation Army Lifehouse in Grimsby (supported accommodation for people experiencing homelessness).” 

Prayer Shawl Ministry takes place on the first Tuesday of the month between 1.30pm and 3.30pm. 

Leeds Central Salvation Army in Nile Street supports the community in a number or ways including through providing food and companionship.