Lia shows one of her projects

The ladies drift in to the meeting room. Chatter and laughter spills out from the room as each woman waits her turn. One by one, they come to the table. Isabel spreads out a king-sized patchwork quilt, Lia shows off a wall hanging, others bring quilts or place mats that they have made. The leaders meet with each lady to inspect her work and to pay her. Their crafts are then sold in Bolivia and throughout the world.

After the business, the women gather for a time of worship and devotions together. For some, it is their first introduction to the Christian faith.

Lia's Story

Lia joined the group two years ago, when her friend Hilda invited her. The extra income helps her buy food for her family. She appreciates all the friends she has met. This past year, Lia began a journey of faith, and now she meets with an enquirers group at the church.

Lia's skills and creativity have benefited the group. She has designed several new appliqués for the women to make, and she is now taking on more leadership responsibilities. From writing out instructions, teaching her appliqués, or helping assemble the project kits, Lia has been a blessing to the Dorcas ministry.

	The women spread out Isabel's quilt.

History of "In Stitches"

"In Stitches—Sewing Hope for Bolivia" has been providing supplementary income and Christian fellowship to women in Cochabamba, Bolivia since 1991. Originally known as the Dorcas Group, it was founded by SIM missionary Michelle Beech. She gave craft classes to the women who came to her home begging for money.

As the group grew, they moved into a local church. In 2001, the focus was narrowed to quilting projects; through the years other missionaries and Bolivians have become involved. Now "In Stitches" is being handed over to and sustained by the Bolivian women.

Give

Would you like to support these women by purchasing one of their quilted handicrafts? Contact Bronwyn.bain@sim.org for more information.

While this project is almost completely self-sustaining, your financial gift can help the ladies to cover large expenses. Currently, they are hoping to buy a quilting machine to make the quilting process easier.

Pray

• for a new location to store fabric and plan kits, as they have outgrown their current location.
• for the ladies to continue to grow in their love for God and each other
• for the ladies to be able to take on the financial aspects of the project
• for God to help them learn to run the website as part of their business
• for the women to take ownership of the group as it takes a new direction under Bolivian leadership

If you would like to commit to praying for the women of In Stitches, please write to Bronwyn.bain@sim.org.