Faith Crafter Magazine 1 2016 | Page 26

Project - Prayer banner Text and Photo : Nicole Plymesser Nelson Prayer is such a necessary part of our faith life. We know we should do it as often as we can, but sometimes we get lost and overwhelmed choosing words. We may not be sure just what to pray for or how to express what we really need to God. Especially when we are in a time of crisis. Then, is when we should pray the most! Prayer flags or banners can help with that very issue. The flags are a visual reminder of images and words that we can use to call upon our Savior. They help focus our concerns and bring us closer to our Savior in a tangible way. Especially when someone is ill. I made this particular banner in honor of World Cancer Day to help me pray for those struggling with cancer, and those who have survived. It would also be a wonderful gift. 1. Start with an 11x14 inches piece of watercolor paper. Get the entire paper nice and shiny with clean water, but no puddles. I started with the yellow circles, blue lines, and green swishes—then let that dry a little. When I thought it wouldn’t bleed, I added the red spirals and purple. 2. After that layer is completely dry, go back with another wash of each color to intensify the hues—making it vibrant and cheery. Let it dry completely. 3. Cut the paper into 6 rectangles—each 7 inches by 3.5 inches. 4. Use stencils or free draw the following symbols, one per rectangle: butterfly, bird/dove, cross, clock, flowers, and a heart. Use a permanent black marker to go over the lines and thicken them so that they stand out against all that color. 5. Cut strips of white paper and write in black marker, in all caps, the following words: Healing, discernment, hope, strength, patience, and peace. (I chose these words to go with each symbol, and they are words that help us remember that we cannot know or control the outcomes of each day, but they help us trust in Jesus to give us what He can, faith.) 26 Faith Crafter January 2016 www.faithcrafter.com