HEALING

Are any among you sick? They should call for the elders of the church and have them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord. –James 5:14

One of the hallmarks of Jesus’ ministry was the amount of time he devoted to healing: praying for restoration and relief from diseases and suffering of many kinds. From its earliest days the church has sought to follow his example, coming together in a variety of ways to pray for and anoint those who were ill.

We continue that tradition today, offering healing prayer as a component of some of our worship services, as part of a hospital visit, or individually by arrangement with our priests. For those who desire it, this prayer may include anointing with oil, blessed by our bishop for this purpose. Healing prayer may also be offered for others, for whom we seek God’s renewal and restoration.

Some Christian churches have traditionally offered healing prayer (and particularly anointing) only at the time of death. Our priests are indeed available to pray with the dying and their loved ones, seeking peace and release from pain for those we love as we commend them into the gentle hands of God. However we do not restrict this sacrament only to the end of life; healing prayer may be sought at all times and for all conditions.

If you are interested in healing prayer, come to one of our services which include it, or talk to our priests.