February 6, 2004

Diana's Angels Ministry Sweeps Country

ST. LOUIS, MO-It started nearly six years ago in Waverly, Iowa with a burden of the heart. A story published in a local newspaper, then picked up in a magazine, soon spread the ministry to the West Coast. Now, Lutheran Women in Mission all over the United States are responding to the need: burial outfits for premature infants and newborn babies.

Imagine a mother's grief over the loss of her premature or new baby compounded by the need to find suitable clothes in which to bury her child. The last place she wants to be is in a toy store looking at doll clothes because they are the only items that fit.

Initially the women of a Bible study group at St. John Lutheran in Waverly sewed outfits for a local funeral home and a hospital. Patterns were developed then printed for distribution to other women's groups. Last year the LWML included Patterns for Preemies in its product catalog and is now averaging sales of eight per day.

"It seems to be taking off like wild fire," said Norine Stumpf, office manager. "We've also received thanks and many touching stories."

Patterns and instructions for sewing garments for infant burial are available on CD for $10. Included are four sizes and styles which will assure a nice fit for tiny infants. There are two designs for girls and two for boys. Each set includes kimono, blanket, burial outfit (including covering for the feet) and a bonnet along with an appropriate gift card.

The Lutheran Women's Missionary League (LWML), with a membership of over 250,000, is the official women's auxiliary of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. The LWML focuses on affirming each woman in her relationship with Christ to enable her to be in ministry among the people of the world. For over 60 years the LWML has been encouraging and equipping women to live out their Christian lives in active mission ministries and to financially support global mission.