Shortly after our Newcastle congregation opened nearly 25 years ago, we formed a Craft Group as an outreach ministry. What began as a small class introducing and teaching needlework—smocking, candlewicking, silk and wool embroidery, patchwork, and more—quickly grew as participants developed their skills and discovered their favourite crafts. Before long, individuals were excelling in their chosen areas and producing some truly beautiful work.
As the group grew in confidence, so did our sense of purpose. Thelma, Shirley, and I began making items for the Mater Cancer Hospital, and gradually others joined in. Over time, our quiet little group became a well-oiled production line! We created and donated many quilts to a wide range of charities, including Camp Quality, the Mater, Multiple Sclerosis, the Auto-Immune Society, Parkinson’s, and several others.
Our projects have varied widely over the years. For a time, we knitted bandages for a leprosy community in India. Barbara and Thelma made more than 200 trauma teddies for the Red Cross to give to children in crisis. We have sewn knee rugs and cushions for local nursing homes and knitted soft beanies for premature babies in hospital. Every project has been a labour of love.
Just last week, I walked into the hall and was stopped in my tracks by the sight before me. Along one side, three ladies were working together to sort, cut, and iron fabric for our next charity quilt. Around the table, one was knitting coat hangers, another finishing bandages, and the rest were engaged in their chosen crafts. It is truly a blessing to see these women, each from different backgrounds and faith traditions, working side by side in such love and care for others in need.
While much of our work is directed outward, our Craft Group has also been a ministry of support within. We have walked alongside one another through sorrow, sickness, loss, and personal trials. The love, care, and ministry shared among our members, and extended to our families, has been a blessing beyond measure. After nearly 25 years, many of our original ladies are still attending, joined along the way by new friends and even one very special gentleman. Together we work, laugh, create, and share our stories. The love we have for one another truly shines through.
I thank God for the privilege of spending almost 25 years with such a wonderful group of people. Our Newcastle Craft Group is more than a program—it is a community, a ministry, and a blessing to all who are part of it.
Shared by Marg Manning and Jan Pratt