Top needlepointed by Jane Oliver.
Boxing bands needlepointed by Caroline Alday and Faye Westfall
The shell (usually a scallop or cockle shell) is the symbol of baptism, but more especially the baptism of Jesus Christ. The three droplets of water symbolize the Trinity - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, into which we are baptized. 2 (Matthew 28:19-20)
Jane Oliver dedicates her stitching “in memory of Remelle Martin, who helped me thread my first needle and taught me about joy, and in honor of Sloan Oliver, who at age 4 stood by my side for long times and took her first stitches in this piece. “ Jane’s reflections: “It's a heritage icon; from Remelle, through me, to my daughter Susan, my daughter-in-law Jammie, and on to my granddaughter, Sloan. It was a work of joy personally and a project of joy in working with all the stitchers. I would never have guessed that this project would come to its conclusion so painlessly. The number of people willing to stitch was such a surprise and an affirmation of so many things -- experienced stitchers, brand new stitchers, multi-generations of stitchers. Each time one person had a problem which prohibited or delayed her continuing to stitch, there was always someone who stepped forward to pick right up. We met our time goal for completion; most unusual, I suspect, for a project of this size. Now we can kneel at the altar rail with great pride for many years to come, and future generations will kneel on true works of art and beauty for many years after we are gone.”
Caroline Alday stitched her boxing band during the time of her son-in-law's illness; so her stitching is in memory of Chris Hinds. She also dedicates her stitching in memory of her husband, Buddy Alday, who passed away shortly before the dedication of the kneelers.
Faye Westfall dedicates her stitching in honor of her mother, Frances Campbell. “My daughter, Kate, did a few stitches on the band. I feel blessed to be part of such a special group of women creating masterpieces that will speak to us for years to come.” |
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