Love Quilts

A group that started in order to teach quilting has evolved into a ministry of comfort in Oak Forest, Ill.

Since 2006, women from Hope Christian Reformed Church have made 10 special love-filled quilts.

Their first quilt was made for a little girl who had been in and out of hospitals often in her short life. When the women delivered the quilt in the girl’s favorite colors of pink and purple, they left with tears in their eyes. Mary Van Loh said, “Through the recipients’ appreciation, we also get wrapped in love.”

The quilts are planned specifically for each recipient. For example, an avid golfer battling cancer received a golf-themed quilt. A young butterfly-loving woman struggling with lupus received a butterfly-themed quilt. A personalized label with a Bible verse or poem is sewn onto each completed quilt.

Recipients have included elderly people, those who can’t leave their homes, and people dealing with chronic and terminal illnesses. The quilt is usually a surprise, and when it is delivered the quilters pray with the recipient. Two quilts were displayed at funerals, and one was sent posthumously to a daughter.

“We have the time and we love these people. We make the quilts for people who need a hug,” explained Lynne Findlay.