The Prayer Blanket Ministry was introduced to St. Austin by a member who received a blanket while recovering from surgery and treatment. The joy and peace she experienced from the gift, along with the prayers of the faith community gave her comfort and hope. Her prayer blanket was at her side while in the hospital; she continues to use it at home today.
The Prayer Blanket Ministry members create lap blankets for those experiencing difficult times. Prayers are offered for recipients as the blankets are constructed. The members of this ministry share a close sense of community and devotion. Those who receive prayer blankets often send words of gratitude remarking that they could feel the warmth and love woven into their blanket. Approximately 4000 blankets have been blessed and given to those in need. The blankets have been sent all over the world, including Afghanistan, France, and Belize, as well as throughout our 50 states.
The blankets are blessed at the 8 a.m. Mass on the second Monday of each month. During this Mass, Anointing of the Sick is also offered.
Volunteers are needed to machine-sew blankets, monogram, iron, and hand-sew on ties and buttons. Work sessions are on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month from 1:30 pm until 6:00 pm at the parish. All are welcome to find a role in this ministry. Volunteers may also work at home.
Our prayer blankets are made from cotton fabric. The COVID-19 virus can live on cotton fabric and other surfaces for 2 weeks. To ensure that the prayer blankets are free from the virus before being released, finished prayer blankets will be isolated for two weeks before being available to fill requests.To reduce handling, no monograming will be available at this time.