Healing

“Christianity roots its healing ministry in the good soil of the Church as a community of ordinary people who come together to do things with God’s help that they could not do in their own strength.” - Una Kroll

The concept of healing has roots to biblical times; through the life and ministry of Jesus Christ as revealed in the gospels we are given many images of healing, as well as stories of healing at the hands of Saints throughout history. The concept of healing is just as important in modern times as it was in the early church, and in our Episcopal tradition the sacrament of healing (unction) has become a common practice in many congregations. Many people find that comfort in the action of anointing and laying on of hands. To them, the action can help in the attainment of peace with whatever has caused the “illness”, be it a physical condition or emotional pain and suffering.

From a global perspective, Christians have taken on roles of “healers” in many parts of the world. Efforts by Christian communities ushered in an age of improved healthcare through the construction of hospitals and other medical facilities where healthcare was not adequately available to the local population. Through the compassionate actions of Christian communities, the believers were able to participate in acts of healing that helped in bringing a sense of wholeness to those in need.

What are some of the ways your own church community practices “healing”? Do you find that your community can offer the support you need when you yourself are in need of healing? How can your chosen Lenten disciplines bring you to a sense of wholeness?