Rosaries for the Military
By: Amanda Ciavarri
Updated: July 29, 2011
William Baart, 70, of Gates, prays as he twists and turns simple cord into a rosary.
He has done this almost every day for two-and-a-half years.
He started when he found out he had cancer.
"I like doing things with my hands, right, so my brother John says I have a good therapy for you. Our church, Mother of Sorrows, makes rosaries. It'll give you something to do keep your hands busy," said Baart.
And busy his hands have stayed, he has made 2,250.
Once Baart has completed the rosary Mother of Sorrows Church attaches a prayer card and then sends them to service men and woman around the world.
It's part of a national organization called the "Rosary Army."
Baart prays for the soldiers as he makes the rosary.
"So if it ends up in your hands there is a rosary already said for you when you get it," said Baart.
Baart says he tries to make at least one a day.
Not only are those overseas benefiting from these busy hands, but also those here at home.
Baart was making a rosary in the doctors waiting room when he meet a woman who mentioned she left hers at home, so he went into the bathroom and started make her one.
"When I came out her husband's name was called, he had to go in for an operation. So when she went in I stopped her and I put it in her hand and she started to cry and said oh my god thank you, you saved me," explained Baart.
Baart has been cancer free for about two years, and he plans on continuing this hobby.
"I've been doing good. So it's kind of a way for me to say, 'thanks good I'm still here and I'm doing some good for someone," said Baart.
To find out more about the "Rosary Army" click here
