Article by Mairwen on the origins of the knitting class - 2011

Thursday at Calfaria, Penygroes, Carmarthenshire is a busy day. In the morning a Prayer Service is held which is open to all, women and men. In the afternoon women come together for the knitting class.

The knitting class started about eighteen months ago because of the illness of my sister-in-law, Margaret Williams, who for many years had been busy knitting for children in Romania. I felt that God was leading me to bring the women together to continue the good work that Margaret had done. There are now 14 ladies in the class busily knitting sweaters, blankets, caps, scarves, teddies and baby clothes. Mr Gwenallt Rees and his wife visited one evening in October to receive the fruits of our labour. They were amazed at all the colourful items on display throughout the chapel. Mr. Rees said:

"As we walked into the chapel we were astounded by the scene before us. It was a treat for the eye because all the clothes the sisters made were carefully displayed around the chapel (in blankets, baby hats, cardigans, shoes, toys ....) - on the pulpit, the pillars, the big seat, around the gallery ...... !!!!! It was an amazing view and unforgettable to see the tens of colourful items of the highest quality decorating the chapel. Our appreciation of the gifts, time, and labour of love of all those who did it is unmatched”

As Mr and Mrs Rees would be travelling to Lesotho in February it was an opportunity for them to send the work and to be in Lesotho to see that it arrived safely and to witness the appreciation of the people.

“When we went out, we saw the repackaged clothes ready to go in different directions - to prisons, hospitals, or orphanages, it was a lovely experience to see the very clothes that were hanging in Calfaria Church after reaching their destination and now in the hands of the sisters of Sefika Church for distribution to the needy!”

This year we have also raised £300 to send 60 Bibles to Romania and this Easter we sent 745 Easter eggs there. The work of class members is not the only purpose of getting together. By meeting over a cup of tea on Thursday afternoons we get to know each other better and we come to share the troubles, concerns and joys of our fellow members.

Mairwen Jones