As cross stitchers, we often find ourselves juggling multiple projects at once. Some are undertaken to honor our ancestors or family members, while others may change up a sampler pattern to add the name of some dear, a symbol of love for that someone special. There are also projects started with friends, where each stitch is a shared experience as everyone stitches the same pattern. However, amidst this tapestry of projects, one stands out for its special significance—the Sunday or Sabbath Stitch.
The Sunday stitch is a unique project that we dedicate time to every Sunday. It's a time for reflection on blessings, gratitude, and our relationship with God. As we sit down with our needle and thread, we enter a state of calmness and mindfulness. Each stitch becomes a prayer, a moment of gratitude for the beauty of the sampler or pattern we are working on.
Unlike our other projects, the Sunday stitch is not about speed or completion. It's about the process, the journey of stitching itself. We take our time, savoring each moment, and allowing ourselves to be fully present in the act of creation.
The Sunday stitch is a reminder to slow down, to appreciate the simple things in life, and to connect with our spiritual side.
Many of us start our Sunday stitch in the evening after church, or early in the morning before the day begins. Whenever we choose to stitch, the experience is the same—a sense of peace and serenity washes over us as we immerse ourselves in our project. The impatience we may feel to finish is overshadowed by the joy and fulfillment we get from the process itself.
For those in need of inspiration, there is a wonderful resource available—the book 'Sunday Stitches: 52 Devotions for Cross-stitchers.' These short devotions are the perfect accompaniment to your Sunday stitch, providing a moment of reflection and spiritual nourishment.
When our Sabbath stitching is finally complete, we hang it on our wall as a reminder of God's presence in our lives and the many blessings we have to be grateful for. The Sunday stitch is more than just a project; it's a spiritual practice, a way to connect with our faith and express our gratitude through the simple act of stitching.
