NASHUA — Illness can cause fear and depression in patients uncertain about their future, especially in those who feel they're battling the illness on their own.At St. Joseph Hospital, angels with knitting needles are doing what they know best to comfort these patients during a challenging and sometimes final phase of their lives.

Women from eight area churches have formed the Comfort Shawl Ministry, which meets periodically to knit and crochet shawls for sick or dying patients.

The shawls provide comfort to people who may be undergoing medical procedures, emotionally or physically traumatized, seeking hope and healing, or grieving, said Chaplain Theresa Neault.

“This has become such a blessing for many patients,” said Neault. “These shawls serve as a reminder that someone — a complete stranger — cares about them and their health. The person who receives it will ultimately be wrapped in prayer.”

The Comfort Shawl Ministry was first organized by a nurse at St. Joseph about 12 years ago. Since then, it has provided more than 400 shawls to people in need, said Neault, who added that more volunteers are needed to help make the program even more successful.

“We always need more shawls. We give them out as fast as we can get them,” she said.

Along with the various church groups that participate, there are individuals throughout the community who also make an effort to occasionally knit shawls. The ministry has become more than just a hospital project, growing into a region-wide effort, said Neault.

About a year ago, Brenda D'Amour of Lowell, Mass., heard about the Comfort Shawl Ministry and contacted the hospital about getting involved. Now, there is a group of 12 women at her church, St. Margaret Parish in Lowell, who volunteer their time and talent each month to knit and crochet the comfort shawls.

“It is a powerful thing,” said D'Amour, adding that one of the special shawls was given to a member of her church choir who was battling cancer. Sometimes there isn't anything we can do for a sick patient, but we can do this — and we can pray.”

Using her skill to help others is a rewarding experience, said D'Amour, 60, who has been knitting for about 25 years.

For each shawl that is distributed, a prayer is attached to help comfort the patient and serve as a reminder of God's healing presence, D'Amour said.

“Just think of all those prayers that went into those stitches,” she added.

For patients who are in pain, lonely, wearied by illness, the shawl is more than a material source of comfort; it's a symbol of support, Neault explained.

The need for shawls is ongoing, with supplies often depleted. Anyone interested in volunteering to make shawls can contact the Spiritual Care Department at the hospital, 882-3000, ext. 67800. People inquiring should leave their address so that information and instructions can be mailed directly to them.

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The “Prayer for Healing” attached to each comfort shawl:

May this gift handmade for you with love,
Be a mantle and a sign
of God's healing presence.
May it warm you when weary,
may it surround you with ease in suffering.
May it encircle you with caring
when you are in pain.
May it comfort you when you feel alone.
May it remind you of God's abiding love.
Amen.