For several years, the Yarnettes, part of the senior adult ministry known as Keenagers at Danville First Church of the Nazarene in Danville, Ill., have covered the community with the love of Jesus by making baby blankets and caps for newborns; scarves and hats for students at an elementary school across the street from the church; lap blankets for school staff; and shawls and lap blankets for nursing home residents.
“I have had some ladies who I have made shawls for tell me several times personally and by cards how much they appreciate our gifts,” says Linda Snider, who participates in the ministry. “I find it very satisfying and rewarding to serve the Lord in this way. I feel like I’m contributing something of myself to God and our church.”
Snider, Margaret Gocking and Gladys Miller create the gifts, and Senior Adult Ministries Pastor Ken Pavlick, his wife, LaVerne, and Arlene Jaynes oversee the distribution of them. The Yarnettes often give their creations to people at places where other church members are volunteering throughout the community. Church members from the 205-attendee congregation donate money and yarn for the Yarnettes’ projects.
“God gave me this talent, and I feel I am to make an impact on the ones in nursing homes and shut-ins,” Miller says. “It gives me such a good feeling to know I am doing something for others.”
Through the Yarnettes ministry, the Danville church has broadened its outreach, serving as a reminder to its community that it is loved, especially those who often feel forgotten.
“The Yarnettes ministry has gained our church much recognition in the area and provided a new avenue to involve some of our members in an outward ministry as well,” Pavlick says.
