In one
part of Tanzania Small Christian Community (SCC) members were asked: "In
addition to the existing ministries in our SCCs, what new ministry or ministries
would you start?"  They answered immediately: "The ministry of healing
especially the laying on of hands."  In African society healing (physical,
psychological, and spiritual) is very important especially in light of the
ongoing influence of witchcraft and superstition.  Healing rituals are an
essential part of various African Independent Churches and Pentecostal Churches:
prayers for healing, healing ceremonies and rituals, and the constant laying on
of hands.

   
Yet the Catholic
Church has hesitated to make this a part of its regular (even daily) ministry
and liturgy.  One elderly expatriate missionary priest was asked what he would
do differently if he was starting his missionary ministry over again.  
Immediately he answered:  “Emphasize healing liturgies more.”