The Church’s ministry to the sick (and those in distress), is based on Jesus’s constant concern and care for those in need. It is reinforced by the Epistle of James’ admonition to the sick (and those in distress) to call for the elders of the Church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. James expects this rite to have three effects: the prayer of faith will save the sick; the Lord will raise them up; and their sins will be forgiven (Book of Alternative Services, Ministry to the Sick, pg. 551).
The Bishop’s Committee on Healing was formed to support the ministry of healing in the Diocese. It was established in 1971 by Archbishop Lewis Garnsworthy. The formation of the Committee has helped to re-establish healing as an integral part of the ministry of the Church. One of the responsibilities of the committee is the annual training of Lay Anointers to support pastoral care provided in parishes. Each anointer is licensed by the Area Bishop, and works under the supervision of parish clergy. Further support is offered to lay anointers through refresher days held each year on topics helpful to their ministry.
The Committee is committed to education across the Diocese, providing speakers as requested for parishes, Area Days, workshops, etc., on a variety of topics related to healing in the Church. Lay anointing educational events will be posted on this website and the Bulletin Board as they become available.
The Committee chair, Dr. Shelley Tidy can be contacted at 416-425-3205 or Dr. Shelley Tidy .
Committee members are Dr. Christena Beintema, the Rev. Daniel Graves, Sr. Doreen McGuff, the Rev. Stephen Kern, Ms. Jan Mills, Dr. Anne Tanner, and the Rev. Br. David Hoopes.
Upcoming educational events
Lay Anointer’s Training Weekend: November 2-4, 2012 (details to follow)
Location: Saint John the Divine Convent, 233 Cummer Ave. Toronto
For registration information, contact Dr. Shelley Tidy or phone 416-425-3205.
For general information regarding Healing Ministries, contact the Rev. Canon Douglas Graydon, Coordinator of Chaplaincy Services, 416-363-6021 ext. 236 (1-800-668-8932).
