From the leaders of our Commuion rail kneeler restoration: Liz Carey, Binney Wells, and Betsy Wilder
In planning the capital campaign, it hadn’t been accounted for that the kneelers needed revision to fit the new space, and restoration from years of wear. It surely would have been easy to order new kneelers custom designed and in perfect condition. Why were we compelled to go to the effort of restoring these 50-year-old soiled and worn kneelers?
We researched the history of the kneelers in the 1976 handwritten minutes of the Women’s Guild. We found the archival copy of their needlework project “The Threads of Love.” The vigor and enthusiasm of these women shone through their incredible endeavor. Their faith and love for St. Andrew’s was in every stitch and they persevered for 18 months, creating symbols of Christianity, using 10 pounds of yarn, spending $1,000, and sewing 1,000,000 stitches.
The kneeler restoration project became our passion through the spirit of these women. We needed to keep their spirit alive by restoring the needlework they gave to the St. Andrew’s community, a gift of love and fellowship, and we wanted to be part of that gift 50 years later.
We planned the presentation of the kneelers in church, and as word of the kneeler restoration spread, we received enthusiastic responses. Please refer to the Needlework Project booklet for the Names of those involved, Patrons, and Memorials.
From Perrin Radley, past rector
“It was a lovely thing to see the names of those who created the needlework—such lovely people, such worthy members of St. Andrew’s—and seeing their names made me realize how fortunate I was to have been a priest with them and so many others at that time. How they must be rejoicing with you all, “upon another shore and in a greater light,” as they witness the long-lastingness of their work and love with which you all have preserved it for certainly another 50 years to come.”
From Hank Junkin, past rector
“Thank you for sending me the beautiful booklet that celebrates St. Andrew’s needlepoint. For me it is a trip down memory lane with many stops for relationship thanksgivings along the way. With angels and archangels and all the company of heaven gathered at the Lord’s table we give thanks to God who has blessed us on our way. We are indeed blessed.”
From Peter Dwyer, grandson of Ruth Charles
“My Grandmother enjoyed working on those projects, and we have several pillows and rugs she made. I would be glad to carry a kneeler into the church.”
From Martha Johnson, one of the original needleworkers
“I don’t remember how long it took, but I do remember listening to the women as we sat in the Parish House needles in, needles out. The dark red background became very boring, but I must admit I really enjoyed that part. We were so fortunate to have Pat guiding us, encouraging us when the endless piles of red wool seemed insurmountable, and praising us when we so proudly displayed the finished project.”
When we have sufficient funding in the Textile Restoration Project, we will start Phase II—8 cushions and kneelers.
~Betsy Wilder, Binney Wells, Liz Carey
