I think the Nov 2010 issue of either McCall's Quilting mag or BH&G Quilting mag had a pattern. I have it downstairs, but my back isn't currently allowing me access to it :lol: I don't know as though it was actually called a prayer shawl or not. I also don't think it is limited to any particular denomination. The pattern I reference is wide enough to cover the back of one's neck and go part way down the back, then come over the shoulders and down the chest. The pattern also had pockets. It would also work great to keep shoulders and neck warm in the winter when you sit in your chair or instead of a bed jacket. My plan is to make one for my neice who will start chemo soon , and as we are Catholic, send along a rosary in one pocket. I would think you can pretty much make any block you want and string them together til you get the right length. My second one will be for an elderly aunt who doesn't like the draft on her neck in winter. The pockets could hold her tv remote, kleenex, etc. I'm going to attempt to back it with minkee..or flannel!