Handwork as Prayer

Handwork is often a form of prayer. Building models, knitting and stitchery, painting, baking bread, throwing pots, weaving — all can become a form of prayer. I have a vivid memory of the scene from the movie Gandhi in which Gandhi removes himself from the tumultuous activities in his quest for justice and sits in solitude spinning his own cotton.

Jane Vennard, Praying with Body and Soul

The art I practice involves stitching by hand with needle and thread. The process is not only relaxing is it meditative and often prayerful. I stitch while waiting for Bob at the doctor. I stitch when I need to calm down.

I don’t typically make traditional quilts but years ago I was a volunteer “blanketeer” for Project Linus which “provides handmade blankets to children 0-18 in the United States who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need.” Lots of love and prayers were sewn into those quilts and a few tears were shed.

In this fast paced world it can be helpful to slow down, do something with our hands and focus our thoughts. By doing this we allow Spirit to speak to and through us.

How do you pray with you hands? Feel free to share in the comments.

Todays artwork is In the Secret Place, inspired by the Holy Family Shrine in Nebraska where we would go for quiet contemplation as well as a monthly prayer service.