Golden K chairperson Kathy Jo Anderson introduces guest speaker Karen Klenke of the Prayer Shawl Ministry at Monday’s meeting. Joanne Lindholm photo

Kingsford — Brrr … the winds have shifted and Old Man Winter is moving in. All bundled up for the frigid weather, Golden K seniors gathered Monday morning to enjoy a cup of coffee while talking about their weekend activities.

Chairperson Kathy Jo Anderson summoned everyone to their feet to begin the meeting. Bill Roberts stepped up to the podium to lead the singing, as Alyce Derwinski entertained everyone by her talents at the piano.

Anderson welcomed Karen Klenke to the meeting and members sang the Welcome Song. “Auld Lang Syne” was sung for member John Aune, who recently passed away.

Pot of Gold winnings were collected by Joanne Lindholm. Gary Proudfit read a Happy Dollar message from Anderson expressed her gratitude for Klenke’s upcoming program.

Thought for the day was a quote by Albert Einstein. “Life is like a bicycle; to keep your balance, you must keep moving.”

Anderson introduced Klenke, who spoke on a spiritual service program that is near and dear to her heart. Prayer Shawl Ministry was created in 1998 by two graduates of the Women’s Leadership Institute at The Hartford Seminary. It combines a love of knitting/crocheting into a prayerful ministry and spiritual practice.

After reading about this program in her church newsletter, Klenke’s neighbor, Teresa Nawn, contacted her about the possibility of starting this program in the area. They collaborated and developed the program here in 2005. The group is open to anyone wishing to join.

“Knitting the Mystery” is a book that they purchased and use as their guideline. This book is their “bible” for the work they do and they have followed the instructions to a tee.

Most prayer shawl ministries knit/crochet shawls and robes to console those who are grieving, comfort those who are ill and bring hope to those in despair. They may also be made to celebrate life and its milestones. The reasons to create a shawl, lap robe or pocket shawl are as numerous as the people who make them.

Shawls that are made locally are hand delivered whenever possible and presented to the individual in need by enveloping them in the garment and praying over them. It is as important to those who knit and give as to those who receive them. Each shawl is logged into a journal and lists the knitter and the receiver.

Prayer Shawl Ministry meets each Tuesday in the fireplace room of First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford, where they sit in a circle and knit the shawls. New members are always encouraged to attend. The Ministry welcomes yarn donations and they can be dropped off at the church.

Golden K meets at 10 a.m. Monday at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford, with guest speaker Trooper Geno Basanese of the Michigan State Police.