The Guild of the Christ Child
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History
The Guild of the Christ Child originated at St. Barnabas Episcopal
Church in Poteau, Oklahoma in 1990 to help mothers who lacked the basic
clothing for their newborn babies. With a seed grant from the Episcopal
Diocese of Oklahoma and gifts from the Episcopal Church Women and Bishop
Moody, the new Guild was able to pledge a quota of layettes each month
to several area hospitals. To this day, the Congregation of St. Barnabas
send a quarterly pledge to the Guild and assist when they can in delivering
layettes.
From that beginning there is now an opportunity for everyone to do
something in a "hands-on" way that makes them feel needed,
wanted and part of a credible Christian ministry. The homebound, the
elderly, youth groups, summer campers, 4-H Chapters, people who sew,
crochet or knit and people who don't sew, crochet or knit and people
who are part of the Episcopal Parcel service are all needed and appreciated.
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The Layettes
The basic layette includes:
1 quilt or afghan
1 receiving blanket
1 towel & washcloth
1 undershirt
1 garment (daytime wear)
1 nightgown
1 pair of socks
1 pair of bootees
1 cap
1 pacifier
Diapers
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Blankets, garments, bootees, caps, nightgowns and diaper suits
are handcrafted. Undershirts, socks, towels, washcloths and diapers are purchased.
Optional supplies include soap, bibs, stuffed toys, toiletries and other donated
baby items.
Hospital staff distribute the layettes for the Guild based on
need. Each gift is packed in an attractive gift bag with a card that reads:
A gift of unconditional love from members and friends of the Episcopal
Church in Oklahoma.
Gifts of time and talent - those who can sew, knit, crochet, quilt, etc. are
the backbone of this ministry. There are no paid employees. Each person is a
volunteer.
AND JESUS SAID TO THEM, WHOEVER WELCOMES THIS LITTLE
CHILD IN MY NAME WELCOMES ME.
Luke 9:48
Believing that
each child
should be exposed to
the love of God,
the Guild of the Christ Child
proposes to be the hands of Jesus
to bless the children
through our talents and resources |
