Redeemer Lutheran Church Prayer Wall: Redeemer Begins a Lenten Journey

In Jerusalem, the "Wailing Wall" or the Western Wall as it is sometimes called, is known worldwide as a spiritual landmark where people of all faiths are welcome to gather and offer prayers. The wall is located in one of the busiest, noisiest parts of the Old City; a daily crossroad for thousands of people. Yet, for many it becomes a singular sacred space, a quiet retreat where prayers are offered and hope is renewed. Believing that God is listening, the prayers are written on small pieces of paper, and tucked into the crevices of the wall reflecting the concerns held in the crevices of the heart. We invite you to place your prayers in the Redeemer prayer wall affirming our belief that the power of prayer changes lives and the world.

The Power of Prayer

I started with prayer shawls, baby blankets, and casket shawls. I had a baby boy on July 20, 1983, who died of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). I was depressed for several years to the point of walking in the path of an automobile and was almost struck. God saved me. While sitting in our family room, a voice spoke to me, saying, “Stop crying and begin crocheting a blanket for babies.” I began to crochet for babies, then for sick people, then for casket shawls. I contacted Pastor Sims in 2001 after years of making blankets for families of Women of International Christian Fellowship. Pastor Sims supported me and encouraged me to grow this new initiative through the Small Group Ministry. The call went out to the entire Redeemer congregation to join me in this endeavor; Renate Seybold was the first to answer to the invitation. Since I could not spearhead the group due to my dialysis treatments, Renate agreed to lead this new ministry. What a blessing it was! We decided that all the crafted shawls should be prayed over before going out to the sick. Early on, I paid for my own yarn; however, when word got out about this ministry, many people began to make donations to pay for the yarn. Through the years everything has been working miraculously! We give God thanks!!! – Ms Lovesta

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Redeemer Begins a Lenten Journey

Beginning on Ash Wednesday, February 17, 2010, Redeemer will endeavor on a journey together in prayer. This prayer wall is a virtual gathering place for us as a praying people to share our concerns and praises.