Thursday, September 24, 2009
Well, finally here in Texas, we have experienced our first little "cool" snap. Leaves are falling like rain, but it feels so nice. We had such a dry, hot summer - it is so refreshing to walk outside and feel comfortable instead of like you are walking into a steam bath. I have really missed working in the gardens and now will be my opportunity to get out there and play in the dirt a little bit. That is when I am home any this coming month. October is going to be very busy, I have trips to Pennsylvania, Houston, Arkansas and Colorado planned - whew! It will be tiring, but loads of fun.
Today, I thought I would talk to you about something I have been involved with that is so satisfying - good for the soul, and helpful to others. I met an extraordinary lady at my church who some years ago lost an infant after childbirth. The experience led her to start a ministry to help others who are affected by the same loss. The ministry is called Johnathan's Ministry, after the son they lost. It is about giving comfort and hope to families who have suffered the loss of their babies and to show Christ's love as the only true comfort.
Their mission is to provide memory boxes to southeast Texas area hospitals. With the support and cooperation of the nursing staff and health care professionals, the items reach families who have suffered the loss of a baby. The boxes include a tiny bag for hair clippings, a plaster kit for hand and foot prints, a disposable camera, a GUND teddy bear, and a handmade layette that includes two gowns, caps, and receiving blankets. Nothing can really comfort a broken heart in the loss of a child, but healing can happen, and joy can be found again.....in Christ and that is what this ministry is all about. Here is their website: Johnathan's Ministry. Even though you may not live in our area of the world, perhaps you can find or start a similar ministry in you area.
Here are a couple of photos of little bereavement gowns and caps I have made for Johnathan's Ministry. There is such a need out there - hospitals are always contacting them for more of their "bereavement boxes". If you like to sew and/or do silk ribbon embroidery or other embellishment, please give it some thought. White cotton batiste is used to construct the dresses and hats; and lace, decorative machine stitching and even silk ribbon embroidery is added for a special touch.
3 comments:
Johnathan's Ministry will be such a blessing to those who are grieving the loss of their child. It is a wonderful idea. Last year a friend of my daughters lost her father at the young age of 36. The nursing staff gave the two daughters and their mother each a plaster print of his hand and a lock of hair in a little bag tied with ribbon. They were so blessed my that act of kindness.
I hope you enjoy your many trips you have planned. I see PA is on the list. Hope the weather is nice for you. May God bless you with safe traveling.
Jules, Thanks for stopping by and commenting on my blog. I am aware of CQ Mag. I eagerly await each issue. I have sent them pictures in the past of some items I made. Didn't really think about the puzzle piece.
I would love to go to the workshop but sadly will be in TX at Quilt festival. Oh that is a good thing too.
Thanks for stopping by, aloha Lilla
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