This was the question St Paul’s, Wahroonga asked when they first had the idea to run a weeknight healing service. Some years ago a book was published called How to have a healing ministry without making your church sick (by Peter Wagner, Regal Books). It highlighted that the very word ‘healing’ can be unhealthy. It conjures up images of fast-talking personalities, or Christians suggesting that lack of healing is due to ‘stubborn sin’.

But St Paul’s, Wahroonga have found that their monthly healing service brings life and health to the church. Songs of praise, prayers, testimonies, and a biblical message prepare the way for people to receive prayer for healing. Trained church members offer quiet and gentle prayer to those who request it.

A number of those seeking prayer come from outside the church community. “We want to reclaim healing as a mainstream church ministry, not as something practiced on the fringes by those whose enthusiasm clouds their theology,” says the Rev David Reay, rector of St Paul’s.

Bruce Moon, the Healing Service coordinator, agrees. “Healing was a fundamental part of Jesus’ ministry and we believe that he still desires healing of our mind, body and spirit,” he said. “The key is his faithfulness rather than our faith. Praying for healing is simply bringing a sick or afflicted person to a totally faithful God who delights to hear and answer our prayers.”

The healing service is held on the second Wednesday of each month, 7.45pm at St Paul’s Wahroonga on Pearce’s Corner.

Details: David Reay, 9489 4129 or Bruce Moon, 9987 4486.