PRAYERS AND SQUARES MINISTRY
In November 2003, members of First United Methodist Church of Upland began a new interfaith outreach when we established Chapter 162 of the International Prayers and Squares (www.PrayerQuiltMinistry.org). Today, the international ministry has over 700 chapters worldwide.
Since our inception, we have crafted over 200 Prayer Quilts for those who worship with us as well as friends, co-workers and others who have special needs. The Prayer Quilt is a gift of faith and a blessing to the recipient and all involved in its making. After consecrating the Prayer Quilt during worship, knots are tied into the quilt by the congregation representing prayers, love and concern for the recipient.
The "Three Commandments" of our ministry are:
- The ministry is not about quilting, it is about praying. Prayer is the purpose of the ministry and we work to promote an active prayer life among the participants.
- Each Prayer Quilt must have a sponsor - a member of the congregation or Chapter who confirms with the recipient that they would accept the gift of prayer in the form of a quilt and what they would like the congregation to pray for on their behalf.
- Prayer quilts, like prayers, cannot be bought, they are gifts.
