The number three often signifies unity and harmony. Think of a three-legged stool or a triangle, for example. And of course, and most significantly, there is the Holy Trinity — God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit.
At Trinity Lutheran Church in Knoxville, Iowa, three holds its own significance. It’s exactly the number of members in the church’s Quilting Ministry. Call them small if you must, but the group — consisting of LouAnn Perkins, Jennie Just-Lighfoot and Joyce Provenzano — has an immense impact.
The sun has barely started its ascent, and the women of Trinity Lutheran are already hard at work. They meet early each Wednesday morning, year-round. United in purpose and faith, the trio makes about 250 quilts for Lutheran World Relief each year. Last year, they made 265.
(left to right) Joyce Provenzano, Jennie Just-Lightfoot and LouAnn Perkins stand with just a few of the 200+ quilts they make each year.
Each of the women have their role, and over the years they’ve become a well-oiled machine. LouAnn does the majority of the sewing, making most of the tops, although on occasion they receive a donated top from the congregation. Jennie helps by sewing some of the bindings. Joyce and Jennie tie the knots.
Thankfully, the group never worries about affording supplies.
"Fabric just shows up at the church,” she says. “There's never a note. So, we've just decided that it drops from heaven. God does provide."
The larger congregation is very supportive, often putting kits together and buying batting whenever the group needs it. LouAnn’s son and son-in-law volunteer to pick up batting, and then transport the finished quilts and kits to their Ingathering, located some 40 miles away in Des Moines.
The women feel so very blessed, thankful that God has given them the ability to help their neighbors in this way, grateful for a supportive congregation and the fellowship they found with each other.
We at LWR are thankful, too. Three may be a small number, but this trio is the mightiest in heart.
Abounding in love
And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we abound in love for you. — 1 Thessalonians 3:12 NRSV
If there are any words that describe you, they are abounding in love. Your hearts, your passion for service and each other, your steadfast dedication and love — it abounds in love, and grows with each season.
With the Fall 2024 issue of Faith in Action newsletter, you will see the impact of this ever-growing love! You will see that it stretches far, reaching across oceans, embracing neighbors living amid war and destruction. And you will see that faithful and dedicated people like you are the reason we can now expand our reach to comfort and care for neighbors here at home, in the United States.
Thank you, dear friends. We couldn’t be more excited about this news! You are indeed abounding in love.
We are incredibly grateful for your partnership in joyfully sharing God’s love and your handiwork with others.
