St John’s Women’s Ministry - Hands That Serve, Hearts That Care

At St John’s Women’s Ministry we believe that even the smallest acts of kindness can make an immeasurable difference in the lives of others. What began as a simple initiative has grown into a beautiful expression of compassion, generosity and fellowship.

Once a month, a dedicated group of ladies gathers to knit and crochet beanies for newborn babies at Mowbray Maternity Hospital. These gatherings have become much more than an opportunity to share a craft; they are a coming together of women whose hearts are united by a common purpose.

Our wonderful ladies arrive with armfuls of lovingly handmade creations. Alongside the many beanies are often complete little sets, including tiny jackets, booties and beanies for newborns. Each item is made with care and the hope of bringing warmth and comfort to a precious new life.

Our involvement began when Hayley Hugo came across an advertisement for the Zoe Project, an initiative established to support young mothers who arrive at hospital with little or nothing for their babies. The project has an external team of dedicated ladies who generously volunteer their time to assemble welcome packages using donations received from various organisations, including St. John’s Women’s Ministry.

We are also fortunate to have Fagwa David, Facilities Administration and Support Clerk at Mowbray Maternity Hospital, who assists us with coordinating the drop-off and receipt of our donations. Fagwa is a wonderfully diligent and organised individual, whose kindness and genuine enthusiasm make every donation a pleasure to deliver. She always receives our contributions with warmth and appreciation and is continually looking forward to receiving more.

To date, our ministry has proudly donated more than 950 handmade items, including beanies, booties, baby jackets and receiving blankets.

Our outreach has since extended beyond newborns. Many of the ladies also bring along knitted and crocheted items intended for older children. On two occasions, we have had the privilege of donating these larger garments to Heaven’s Nest Child Care and Recreation in Ottery.

There, we have come to know Aunty Verna, the facility manager, whose vibrant personality is matched only by her enormous heart for the children in her care. Together with her dedicated team, she works tirelessly to ensure that the children's needs are met. From preparing meals and maintaining the facility to arranging school attendance, church activities and the many other responsibilities involved in caring for the children, their commitment is truly admirable.

More recently, our ladies have embraced another meaningful initiative: the Sleep Fairy Project, launched by Tygerberg Children's Hospital. Through this project, little knitted and crocheted ladybugs are lovingly made to offer comfort to children facing surgery. These soft little companions are given to young patients to help ease their fears during what can be a daunting experience. This initiative is ongoing and is scheduled to conclude at the end of November.

Behind every one of these projects is a remarkable group of women. They come from all walks of life, each bringing something unique to the table. Some had never knitted or crocheted before joining us, yet they have embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm and determination.

They encourage one another, share their skills, learn new ones and faithfully give of their time. They are the heartbeat of these initiatives, and the value of what they create with their hands is immeasurable. More importantly, they remind us that service does not require grand gestures, extraordinary resources or special recognition. It simply requires a willing heart.

We believe every one of these ladies deserves to be celebrated and applauded for the love, generosity and selflessness they so freely demonstrate. Their contribution reaches far beyond the beautiful items they produce; it touches the lives of mothers, children and families who may otherwise have very little.

To each and every lady who has given her time, talent, wool, encouragement and love, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. You are making a difference, one stitch at a time.

A Picture of Kindness in Action

Behind every handmade gift is a woman who gave her time, shared her talent and poured a little love into something made for another. These are the hands and hearts behind our ministry — ordinary women doing extraordinary things, one stitch at a time.

Jesus reminds us - "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these." Mark 10:14

St. John’s Women’s Ministry - Serving with willing hands and compassionate hearts

This ministry is led by Samantha Adams, Heidi Cornelison & Hayley Hugo