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Members of in Lafayette, Ind., say that making greeting cards is “a joy,” “rewarding,” and “good therapy.”

A group of about 10 people makes dozens of cards one Saturday each month. Since they began a little over a year ago, they have distributed encouraging cards to nursing home residents, veterans, cancer patients, hospice patients, and parents of deceased veterans.

“It’s rewarding doing something that will give joy to someone else,” said Phyllis Wilson. “I’m not a crafty person, but I found out I have some hidden talents they pulled out of me.”

“What has impressed me is the different skill levels in our group,” said Jenny Henderson. “Some, like me, can appreciate beauty, but we don’t always have the skill. But it’s unbelievable how folding paper and combining different patterns can make something so beautiful. It’s really been a joy to be a part of this.”

The secret to the group’s card-making success is Lynda Pala-Smith, a former card demonstrator who founded the group after her husband died. She also donated her treasury of stamping supplies for the group’s use. “When I lost my husband, I wasn’t feeling up to doing things,” said Pala-Smith. “I found that making the cards together was therapeutic for me. It is good medicine—it lifts your spirits.”

The group keeps a supply of cards for all occasions available in a basket in the church lobby. Church members may help themselves to the cards to give out to whomever they wish.