Healing service will be included in worship Sunday at Circle of Grace

Circle of Grace Lutheran Church will offer a healing service as a portion of its worship service Sunday, Sept. 28.

"In the gospels we read how Jesus healed many people. He forgave sins, cast out demons, cured physical ailments, made the blind see and the lame walk," said the Rev. Jeff Lageman. "He commanded his disciples to go out to proclaim the good news of God's kingdom. They also were empowered by God to heal. Then Jesus summoned his 12 disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to cure every disease and every sickness.

"The church today practices the ministry of healing as well, though we do not suggest that physical healing must follow our prayers. We also do not suggest that those who do not experience physical healing after prayer have not found favor with God. The service of healing as we practice it is meant to expand our understanding of God's goodness, care and concern as well as offer comfort through prayer and the laying on of hands.

"The term healing should be understood in the widest possible way. Every human being needs healing in some dimension of life, whether it be physical, emotional, spiritual or relational. The gift of healing is not limited to physical healing, or to those seeking remedy for a particular illness or disease. Healing can refer to working through stages of grief, coming to terms with life-threatening illness or accepting inevitable death. With the rite of healing we do not seek to replace or diminish the gifts of God through the scientific and medical community, nor do we promise a cure. Instead, we seek to convey God's love and care for all who suffer, and celebrate the presence of Christ though the Christian community."

The public is invited to participate in the service. Worship begins at 9:30 a.m. in the Limestone College Chapel.