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History
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As a result of a Pastoral project for their degree (Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies, at the University of St. Thomas, Houston, Texas), Deacon Jerry Coenen and Marcia Birsinger of St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic Church in Houston decided to put into practice their idea of the Prayer lap Quilt.The Threads of Healing Ministry, co-founded by Gloria Coenen (Deacon Coenen's wife) and Marcia Birsinger, began in April 2001 and as of February 24, 2009 486 quilts have been distributed. Since that time, three other parishes, two in Houston and one in Illinois, have also initiated this ministry.These quilts are given to members of the parish who are seriously ill and to those who are unable to participate in the life of the parish. By assembling and binding these quilts, we offer physical, emotional and spiritual comfort to the recipients, evoking images of warmth, home, support and comfort.In honor of loved ones in the armed services, St. Luke the Evangelist Threads of Healing Quilting Ministry also created a Prayer Quilt for those serving in the military. A sample quilt hangs in the Social Hall and family members are encouraged to pin on pictures of their loved ones, identified with name and branch of service.