Praying over someone

[MichaelMary]

Is it proper for lay people to pray over other people? Is the laying of hands on the sick with blessed relics and praying over them a violation of any church rules? I had heard that only a priest can lay hands on someone and pray over them or bless them. I would never want to do or be part of a group that is doing something against any church rule or laws.

thank you

 

[Br.Rich_SFO]

MichaelMary:

Is it proper for lay people to pray over other people? Is the laying of hands on the sick with blessed relics and praying over them a violation of any church rules? I had heard that only a priest can lay hands on someone and pray over them or bless them. I would never want to do or be part of a group that is doing something against any church rule or laws.

thank you

Yes a lay person can “lay hands” and pray for another especially the sick in a private setting. As long as it is clearly understood that they are in no way intending to immitate a Sacrament like Annointing of the Sick or Confirmation.

 

[twiztedseraph]

Br. Rich SFO:

Yes a lay person can “lay hands” and pray for another especially the sick in a private setting. As long as it is clearly understood that they are in no way intending to immitate a Sacrament like Annointing of the Sick or Confirmation.

A benedictine Abess inducted an oblate by having her kneel and laying her hands on her forehead…this was done during mass. This is a very liberal abbey. The priest encourages everyone to stand around the altar and only use a profound bow at the very end of the consecration…