Do you have more than one project in progress? I have stacks– some must be done NOW, some are handwork for when I watch tv with my husband, some are mindless chores like hemming for when I’m on the phone, some I put aside for one reason or another.
Still, in the midst of a looming deadline and other pressing matters, I took the time to embroider 6 hemstitched linen guest towels for upcoming baptisms at our church. I had customized the design sometime ago for a newly ordained pastor. So it was just a matter of hooping up my stash of linen guest towels and embroider them. It was so satisfying to stitch something simple and meaningful in the midst of all the sewing busy-ness.
You might recall my story that our church was struck by lightning and burned to the ground several years ago.
As you can see, nothing remained. The only survivors were three heavy brass collection plates. They have been box framed under glass and hang in the narthex of our rebuilt building. A one word caption is inscribed on a plaque beneath each one–STILL ON FIRE But now, for God.
In time, the church was rebuilt, but just with the basics. None of the lovingly made linens and other niceties made by members in the 50 year church history survived. One of my personal missions is to restock the church with lovingly made paraments, banners and linens.
At a recent baptism, it was clear that towels were needed.
I was reminded of my grandchildren’s desire to be baptized, after witnessing the sacrament administered to 5 adults. For the children’s sermon, they were lined up on the floor for an up close view and a brief explanation.
In the car on the ride home from church there was discussion about the service. in a clear voice, 8 yo Laurel announced that she wanted to be baptized. When Robert was asked if he, too, would like this, he replied, “Well, maybe but without so much water.”
A few months later they were baptized, with less, but sufficient water.
3 yo Alastair was not one to miss a photo op with his cousins
In the next few weeks there will be more baptisms at our new church. Regardless of how much water is used, there will be towels to dry the holy water.
Now, to work toward that looming deadline.
What are you stitching?
