A COVID-19 Memoir: Using the Co-Occupation of Crafting and Spirituality to Promote Health and Wellness in the United States

The occupational therapist authors explored the evolution of co-occupation during their experiences of social distancing related to the COVID-19 pandemic and times of ongoing civil unrest. The research method used is auto-ethnography to describe and analyze their personal experiences juxtaposed with their cultural experiences. The authors, one white and one African American shared a desire to promote emotional and spiritual wellness during isolation, healthcare disparities, and social unrest. This collaboration led to a creative partnership aimed at promoting health and wellness for both themselves and sectors of their local African American spiritual community. Through designing, creating, giving, and receiving cycles, they worked cooperatively to interweave craftwork with social ministry. Intrigued by the traditions of African kente cloth, they designed and carried out a handwoven kente-style liturgical stole ministry focused on encouraging African American pastors who experienced difficulty engaging in their usual worship and fellowship, which serves as their respite from civil unrest and providing comfort during illness and death.