Prayer Shawl We all have friends in need. Sometimes the friend just needs a hug or an encouraging chat over a cup of coffee. Most of us benefit from a reprieve from the daily grind and having a friend to laugh with can go a long way. But sometimes a friend needs more - when that friend is walking through a dark, sad, or scary time; what many of us call “the valley.” Obviously, the person experiencing a trial is the one with the difficulty - but sometimes knowing how to be a good friend can be hard too. We don't always know what to say. We don't want to be trite, or too serious. We want to be there, but not over-bearing. Some of us also have a tendency to shirk away from very emotional situations. A tangible gift has a powerful impact and offering something personal can help with healing. I love giving a prayer shawl that represents everything I wish, hope, and pray for that individual in the midst of trouble. And not merely a shawl you would find in a store or in a pattern book, but a personalized crocheted fabric that wraps a friend in symbolism. The symbols you choose will depend on your beliefs and the beliefs of the person receiving the shawl. The purpose isn’t religious proselytizing; it's blessing someone going through a hard time.

Click here for free crochet pattern