Holy Stitchers Ministry Celebrates Baptisms and Welcomes Families, One Stitch at a Time

The Sacrament of Baptism is full of symbols — from water to oil — that paint a picture of cleansing and forgiveness. Here at Holy Family Cathedral, a dedicated group is working to create a special item full of symbolism — one that parents can keep to always remember their child’s Baptism.

The Holy Stitchers Ministry makes and embroiders the white garment that is placed on the infant after they are baptized. The members also help with any alterations to vestments. The handmade garments include several designs, including a seashell with water and the words, “Child of God.” They also say “Holy Family Cathedral.”

Kaye Ellis, who helps coordinate this ministry, is thankful to use her talents in sewing and embroidery to serve our Lord. Newly retired from Tulsa Community College, Kaye was looking to get more involved at Holy Family Cathedral. When she learned about Holy Stitchers, she knew it would be a way to get involved, do something she loves and meet more people.

“It’s so nice for the parents to leave with something that will be a memento of this beautiful sacrament,” she says.

Baptism of a child could be one of the first sacraments a couple celebrates at the Cathedral. This makes it all the more important to make the sacrament special and meaningful.

“This is a way for the parish to welcome a family and welcome new members,” Kaye says. “It’s something they get to keep.”

This ministry is relatively new, and members didn’t have many opportunities to meet before the COVID-19 pandemic, which has put a stop to group gatherings for the time being. However, for now, Holy Stitchers members continue to make the garments at home.

“We look forward to meeting again as a group when it’s safe to do so,” says Kaye.

The fellowship component is a huge part of this ministry. Kaye says a wide range of people, from teenagers to senior citizens, were interested in getting involved. Some wanted to make the garments, while some wanted to embroider, and others wanted to get involved to learn both.

“When we can meet as a group, it’s the opportunity to be with other people that share my faith in a more informal setting than just going to church services,” Kaye says.

If you would like more information on the Holy Stitchers Ministry, or to become involved, please email Kaye Ellis at kaye.phelps@yahoo.com or call the office at 918-582-6247. Please note, Kaye is also looking for those with talents in alterations to help with vestments.

Holy Stitchers gathered to make white baptismal garments prior to the pandemic.