Types of Intercessory Prayer

Christianity defines intercessory prayer as the act of earnestly requesting assistance from God for the benefit of another. Conversely, an eastern mystical approach describes the practice as assisting another by sending them healing energy.

Types

You can engage in intercessory prayer in private, with a spiritual community or by requesting the assistance of a third-party prayer group. The various prayer forms include chanting, reciting sacred texts, speaking conversationally to God or sending healing energy through visualization.

History

The Bible testifies to the ancient practice of praying for others. A study by Byrd and Byrd found a total of 58 references of healing through intercessory prayer.

Effects

According to Larry Dossey, since 1872, various scientific studies have attempted to prove the possible healing effects of prayer, such as curing cancer, recovering from a heart attack or enjoying a longer life span. Although not definitive, these studies present encouraging data concerning the efficacy of prayer.

Theories and Speculation

Two models predominate in explaining how prayer works: the scientific model and the supernatural model. The former suggests a mind/body connection in which the belief stimulates a physical response. The latter suggests a supernatural agent or force that can manipulate the physical world.

Warning

Most healers warn against substituting prayer for medical intervention, but agree on the important role of prayer in healing.

References

• Keith E. Byrd and Diana P. Byrd; "A Listing of Biblical References to Healing that May Be Useful as Bibliotherapy to the Empowerment of Rehabilitation Clients"; The Journal of Rehabilitation, Volume 59; 1993
• Larry Dossey; Healing Words; 1997
• Thich Nhat Hanh; The Energy of Prayer; 2006

Resources

• Prayer requests