From coast to coast, spring has sprung. While we love the spring palette of newly bloomed flowers that mark the start of the season, there’s no question about our favorite spring colors — the rainbow hues of your beautiful quilts from National Quilting Day!
We asked for photos of 2026 celebrations and our quilters delivered! Because of space, we couldn’t post them all but you can see more over at LWR’s Quilt & Kit Makers Facebook group. Thank you for everyone who celebrated and was celebrated. You are the heart of this ministry and we are so grateful for the many ways you answer God’s call to help our neighbors in need.
Messiah Evangelical Lutheran Church in New Berlin, Pennsylvania
The Women’s Outreach Work Group at Messiah Evangelical Lutheran Church celebrated National Quilting Day by welcoming more than 60 women from across the Susquehanna Valley for lunch, fellowship and hands‑on quilting experiences led by Messiah’s own quilters. The event highlighted LWR kits and showcased a variety of inspiring women‑led outreach ministries from throughout the valley. Several members shared what participating in this ministry meant to them:
“We are stitching quilts while also stitching friendships,” says Miriam Milbrand “It's important that we are touching others globally. There is so much to be said for contributing to something bigger than ourselves.”
Emily Moyer agrees. “I love being part of this group because it lets me do something meaningful, even with the physical limitations that shape what I can take on now. We care for one another as we work, and together we create something beautiful for people who truly need it.”
“Being part of a quilting ministry often means combining a passion for quilting with a desire to serve and help others,” Kay Tric says. “It's a way to connect with others, share skills, and contribute to meaningful causes. We lead with heart, serving those in need both near and far.”
Our Savior Lutheran Church in Larimore, North Dakota
To celebrate National Quilt Day, Our Savior Lutheran Church hosted a community soup luncheon. The quilting ministry used the event as a fundraiser. Attached to each quilt was a note highlighting organizations such as Lutheran World Relief and the ongoing need for support. The event will ensure the committed team at Our Savior can continue putting their faith into action.
First Lutheran Church in Ellicott City, Maryland
At First Lutheran Church in Ellicott City, Maryland, the “First Sewing Circle” quilting group has the entire congregation’s support, even of its smallest members. The children design quilts for LWR, and the group then sews the quilts exactly as they were designed.
“The ladies in our Sewing Circle Ministry cut fabric, sort, design, sew and tie each quilt as if made for their own loved ones,” says quilter Deborah Hardesty.
Olsburg Lutheran Church in Olsburg, Kansas
“Making quilts is something we can do to help those in need. We have a man who cuts squares for us from his room in a care home!” Kathy Monser, Olsburg Lutheran Church
Lower Susquehanna Synod Upper Dauphin Conference Members
To celebrate National Quilting Day, members of the Lower Susquehanna Synod Upper Dauphin Conference gathered at Zion Lutheran Church in Erdman, Pennsylvania. The group worked on 14 quilts for Lutheran World Relief, with batting and lunch provided through Thrivent seed money.
Member Ruby Shepley finds joy in serving others while visiting with friends. “I love to sew, and I enjoy spending time with other ladies, the fellowship and knowing it is helping others!” she said.
“Sewing is my passion, and I am grateful that I can use my sewing skills to provide comfort and care to neighbors around the world,” says member Molly Wirick, who has quilted for LWR and others for over 40 years. And given her fabric stash, she adds, “I will enjoy making them for many years to come!”
St Paul's Lutheran Church in Newark, Delaware
Your quilts and kits provide more than warmth for neighbors who are in crisis. They provide hope. You provide hope. Thank you for serving as Jesus’ hands and feet on Earth!