by Eleanor Simons
I met Martha Jane in church and got to know her through the Prayer Shawl Ministry. The Prayer Shawl Ministry was started in 2011 by Martha Jane. Knitters made shawls, baby blankets, lap robes, and hats. It was a way to give comfort and show God’s love to others. Recipients did not need to be Grace members.
I sent one of her shawls to my granddaughter who had brain surgery for a tumor removal and then had radiation every day for weeks. Martha Jane made sure it was my granddaughter’s favorite color and it was beautifully bagged with a prayer attached. It made ME feel better and my granddaughter loved it.
The Prayer Shawl Knitters met monthly, started with a prayer, shared patterns and yarns, gave lessons freely, and there was conversation and laughter. I joined the group and learned to knit.
From the knitting class I learned more about Martha Jane, and we became friends. She had many health problems over the years and never once did I hear her complain. I went through a difficult time with heart problems and heart procedures. We made a pact to talk to each other if we were feeling depressed or sad. We shared, talked, listened, and prayed for each other. Today I knit almost every day and I miss her.
Martha Jane Singeltary's Interment Service will be held in the Memorial Garden behind the Church on Wednesday, August 24, following the noon service. She passed away on December 16, 2020.