This is how we survive -- by helping each other in small, creative ways.
Rev. Dr. Evelyn Rainey, STM, PhD, DPT - Educator, Author, Publisher, Minister, and Crochet Master
(as well as Cat Wrangler)
AS of easter 2025
Doctor of Practical Theology
Intelligence is a wonderful thing. But if one cannot apply the knowledge gathered and stored for a lifetime TO that life, it is worthless. Practical Theology is HOW one applies one's beliefs in a practical and useful way.
PhD in Religious Studies
I have always been fascinated with sacred writings - the Bible, Torah, Dead Sea Scrolls, journals of the early Christians, etc. I love comparing the beliefs of different peoples and find the commonalities between us all. We are truly made in the image and likeness of God. My religious studies have proven this time after time.
Masters in Sacred Theology
Earning my master's has been one of my major life goals. I began this part of the journey while taking care of my mother. I only had the thesis left to do when I put it aside, overwhelmed by my caregiving responsibilities. I considered following the United Methodist path to ministry, but they would only accept 2 of my classes although I had a 3.4 GPA. So again, I waited. But I was waiting on God to lead me. In 2025, God led me to the EITS, who accepted my transcript and waited patiently while I wrote my thesis. I thank God for this journey and accomplishment.
Called by God to Serve
I have been called to preach, sing, pray, officiate religious ceremonies, and faithfully serve the sacraments of Baptism and Holy Communion.
An Interfaith Church is neither Catholic nor Protestant, but a respectful and sacred blend of both.
News
ChristLit Book Awards
Mary and Martha, Change, and Follow His Instructions have won in the Understanding the Faith category.
When Everything Gets Washed Away and Waiting for Dry Land have won in Health & Well-being.
Caring for Children Through Crochet and Woven Prayers have won in Church & Ministry.
Comes the Warrior has won in Fiction.
My Latest crochet Book
Caring for Children through Crochet; A Prayer Shawl Ministry Handbook
Caring for Children Through Crochet is a pastoral resource for those who facilitate a Prayer Shawl Ministry or who just love to crochet. The focus of this book is ministering to children. It includes reflections on children and parenting skills based on Scripture, crochet patterns for children's items (caps and other clothing, toys, finger puppets, blankets, and dragon capes), and articles by experts in the fields on how best to minister to children from specific groups (adopted, Gifted, Special Needs, survivors of abuse and violence, as well as members of a religious group, grandparents, and setting boundaries).
This book will help you feed His sheep.
Evelyn Rainey is an American educator, author, and publisher. She has crocheted since before Mankind landed on the moon. She facilitates a Prayer Shawl Ministry and is available to assist groups and individuals minister to others through crochet.
Whether you crochet at a beginner or master level, you can use this book individually for weekly devotions, or to form, facilitate and support your own Prayer Shawl Ministry. Bulk copies (orders of 12 or more) are available through the publisher at a discounted price to help encourage the establishment of prayer shawl ministries in churches. The book is sufficient to start and maintain a prayer shawl ministry, but Rev. Rainey is available for assistance via email and zoom. Contact her through this website.
United Methodist Temple PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY
Prayer Shawl Ministry at United Methodist Temple
We do not meet in person. We crochet, knit, sew, and quilt on our own at home, in the doctors' waiting rooms, and wherever our talented hands can be useful. If you are in need of a prayer shawl for a loved one or baby items, contact the church and one will be provided for you. We may ask you to cover the cost of shipping and postage, but if you can pick it up from the church, we give them freely.