‘Helpful’, ‘engaging’, and ‘informative’, were amongst the responses from participants in the Introduction to Prayer Ministry morning held at St Stephen’s Church, Barbourne Worcester, which was organised by members of the Worcester Diocesan Healing Advisory Group.
"I found it so uplifting and I want to pursue prayer ministry," one person commented afterwards. "It wasn’t just a lecture. We were encouraged to respond throughout."
Those present considered whether healing prayer ministry is central to the work of the Kingdom or a ‘niche’ ministry within the church. In the first session of the morning, they looked at how Jesus healed people and communities, interspersing Gospel stories with examples of God healing today. The second session exploring intentional prayer and the difference it makes, was descibed as ‘thought provoking’, ‘reassuring’ and ‘enabling’.
Some of those who attended hoped to inspire their clergy and church councils to consider healing prayer ministry in their contexts. Many used the opportunity to receive personal prayer ministry with trained prayer ministers - "It’s nice to know you’re not alone," one person commented
If you missed this event, the diocean Healing Advisory Group are hoping to repeat it next year. But if you want to gather a group of people from your church, or team of churches or Deanery, they would be able to bring the session to you. They can also advise about training and supporting a team of prayer ministers for your church or starting a healing service.
There is useful advice and contact information on the healing pages of the Diocesan website
or contact the Revd Christine Holzapfel, the Bishop’s Advisor for Healing Ministry.
