At the end of October, 19 members of the churches in Kidderminster East came together at St George’s Church, Kidderminster to follow an ‘Exploring Christian Healing’ course. Led by Revd Guy Hewlett and Glenn Scott, the aim was to revitalise Healing Prayer ministry across the Team, encouraging and inspiring existing prayer ministers and equipping new ones.
The course used training material from The Christian Healing Mission and comprised, in five sessions, video presentations and meditations from John Ryeland, reflections on scripture, group discussion and practically praying with each other. The basic premise of the training was that ‘Christian healing is the ministry of bringing the on-going touch of Jesus that transforms us into the people we were created to be.’ As fellow travellers into wholeness, we can support each other in prayer to know ‘the love of Father God, the presence of Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit.’ “By working through a different approach to the Ministry of Healing prayer,” Glenn says, “we were led to thinking of the ministry from a different perspective.”
Participants on the course commented that it helped them to grow in understanding and confidence in prayer ministry. There was an appreciation of the supportive and affirming presentation and the discussion in small groups building trust – ‘it felt safe’.
The weekend of training culminated in a service for Wholeness and Healing at St George’s on the Sunday morning. The congregation were invited to receive anointing with oil and prayer for healing with ministers who had followed the course, using prayers from the Church of England’s Healing Ministry liturgy. Guy commented: "This time was greatly blessed. Out of a congregation of about 120 a large percentage were anointed and received prayer ministry. For me it felt very special. I was reminded of a wedding service filled with love and hope!"
If you would like to explore the opportunities for training in prayer ministry (there are several good and different trainings available to suit different needs) or guidance about holding a healing service or incorporating the offer of prayer ministry into regular services, Christine Holzapfel, Bishop's Adviser for Healing Prayer Ministry, may be able to help.
Email: The Revd Christine Holzapfel - Bishop’s Adviser for Healing Prayer Ministry
