Each fall members of Woodynook Christian Reformed Church in Lacombe, Alberta, get out their sewing machines, fabric, and needles and get to work quilting for those in need.
Grada Drost, a member of Woodynook CRC, works on a quilt.
This year they made quilts for The Mustard Seed, a Christian not-for-profit organization in Edmonton, Alberta, just over an hour from Lacombe.
In the past the quilts have gone to survivors of earthquakes in Haiti and in Japan.
Approximately 20 women of all ages participate in the sewing bee. Some come to quilt, others to sew, and some to help out where needed, but they all come with a love of serving God in this way.
“We’ve had large donations of fabric, thread, and quilt batting. It’s really a community-building event, with lots of visiting and technique-learning as well,” explained Helen Doef, one of the organizers and a quilter herself.
Sarah Nicolai-deKoning, who works with community engagement programs at The Mustard Seed, explained where the quilts will be used. “Over the next number of months, The Mustard Seed will be providing supportive housing for 20 currently homeless men and women. These beautiful quilts—and the thought and care they represent—will go a long way toward making people feel welcome in their new homes.”
The Woodynook quilting crew hopes to make the event semi-annual and possibly stockpile quilts for needs that arise. “We love sewing and love visiting and love seeing our projects put to good use all over the world,” said Doef.