Michigan — Something to have and to hold that you can call your own is very important to a child. At an August 2003 meeting, the Fenton women’s ministries group met and decided to work on a community project making quilts for abused children. The group’s goal was to make six quilts by December.

Twelve ladies met and began the project. What was so unique was that several of the ladies had never used a sewing machine before! They brought sewing machines and bright-colored material to their meeting. What a great fellowship time they had with each other, learning to cut, baste stitch, and use the sewing machines. Soon their initial goal to make six quilts turned into 15, and by Christmas they had made 33 quilts! A number of quilts were given to a shelter for abused children, and some were included in the Christmas baskets that the church provided to needy families.

The ladies were especially blessed by a guest who had lost her husband and had made 15 quilts by herself! “This lady comes to the meetings and offers so much to our group,” said Jean Bidelman, woman's ministries leader. Jean added, “It was a wonderful social time for us ladies as we sewed and cut the squares. Just to know we had a small part in wrapping a child in a soft quilt reminded us of Christ wrapping us in His love.”

As of April 2004, a total of 35 quilts have been made. Another set of blankets has been given to a group that prepares baskets for newly diagnosed pediatric cancer patients at a local hospital. This project along with a number of other projects will continue throughout the year.

Pat Bingham, Michigan District 8 women's ministries representative