Prayer Blanket Ministry: Providing Comfort for Those in Need

It’s a true sign of comfort and care — in difficult times, holding onto a soft blanket, being wrapped in its warmth. This is what our Prayer Blanket Ministry strives to do for those in need of love and care.

This ministry makes blankets that are one side cotton fabric and the other side flannel. The blankets come with a letter that explains the ministry and assures the recipient of the prayers from the community. Judy Cabaniss, the current ministry coordinator, knows how meaningful prayers from the community can be during times of hardship and suffering.

“I believe that our blessed blankets bring peace and comfort to everyone who receives one,” Judy says. “I believe the softness of the flannel is felt every time it is held, and that is another comfort for the recipient.”

Anyone can join this ministry. There is no specific time commitment or number of blankets that each member must sew, and the other members will help you learn to sew if you do not already possess this skill. There will be a new sewing circle starting in the Fallon Center classroom, which will help those who want to learn to sew so they can be involved in the ministry.

“I have always believed that learning to sew a simple project for the first time will give the sewer more confidence,” Judy says. “These blankets are that confidence builder. They are very simple to make, and those who come to the sewing circle will have someone to teach them. We have sewing machines available thanks to the members of our parish who have donated them for this ministry.”

Being involved in parish life is an important aspect of living a life of stewardship. The Prayer Blanket Ministry has been one way that Judy has been living a life of stewardship for 20 years.

“Our time is valuable, but it’s important to give some of that time to our parish,” Judy says. “Our talents are varied, of course, but once we commit to giving whatever talent we have, we will find our treasure in knowing that we have contributed to the common good of our parish.”

After being involved in this ministry for so long, Judy is looking to divide some of the coordinator responsibility between a couple of people. She hopes to have two or three people who can help her. Presently, she is working on a plan for each person to have one key responsibility so that all the responsibility for the ministry doesn’t fall on one person’s shoulders. This is another way to get involved, even if sewing is not one of your talents.

If you are interested in joining the Prayer Blanket Ministry, please contact Judy Cabaniss at judycabaniss8705@gmail.com or 919-848-1898.