by Belinda Rimer
The practice of holistic medical care has its roots in the ancient world and looks at care of the "whole" individual - physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional. In the fourth century BC, Socrates warned that treating only one part of the body would not produce desired results. Hippocrates, widely recognized as the father of medicine, taught that many factors contribute to the health or ill-health of a human being and that all areas of the patient's life should be considered during treatment. Even more ancient holistic healing traditions in China and India date back over 5,000 years.
With the development of the strictly "rational" or scientific medical model (mostly in the 20th century), the concept of holistic care was discredited. The interaction of mind, body, and spirit in the health of the whole individual was rarely taken into account during treatment. But recent studies have found objective evidence that those who are in touch with their religious and/or spiritual side have healthier lifestyles and fewer physical disorders. Faith is not advocated instead of modern medical science, but it is recognized that those with an active spiritual or religious faith experience an enhancement of the benefits of medicine in both prevention and treatment. Healing is promoted by a patient-centered approach that includes the physician and other medical personnel being open to addressing spiritual as well as medical concerns and to the integration of modern scientific care with the patient's deep personal faith. Of particular help is the presence of a strong social support network such as a church, synagogue, or prayer group.
Seeking to further promote holistic healing, Wings recently initiated our Prayer Circle ministry which now meets on a weekly basis at each location. In the midst of a busy oncology clinic and amid all its disruptions, a small circle of people engages in a focused time of silence, meditation, scripture reading, poetry, prayer, and soothing music. Patients frequently come with their IV poles or in wheelchairs and are joined by family, friends, staff, and "regulars". Prominently displayed nearby is a copy of a primitive pre-Columbian sculpture, "Circle of Friends", which was chosen to symbolize the Prayer Circle. The encircling arms of the sculpture represent the healing, peace and love that can emerge when burdens are shared in community with each other and with God through prayer. At a special time in the service joys and concerns are shared and prayers are offered for those unable to be there who have left written requests in a "prayer box" located in an area easily accessible to patients and families. Designed to be ecumenical and welcoming to believers of all faith traditions and practices, the services are led by alternating ordained and lay ministers of various denominations and religions and are designed to be spiritual rather than religious with the emphasis on prayer and silence rather than preaching.
Prayer Circle Schedule
No Charge. Prayer and meditation can strengthen the spirit, calm the emotions and enhance the enjoyment of each day.
Southaven
- Tuesdays and Wednesdays / 7668 Airways Blvd., Southaven
- 10:00am – 10:30am
- Call Wings Cancer Foundation Southaven – 662.996.1083 for more information.
Midtown Memphis East Memphis
- Thursdays / 100 N. Humphreys Blvd., Memphis
- 10:00am – 10:30am
- Call Wings Cancer Foundation East Memphis – 901.683.0055 ext. 1159 for more information.
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Meditative prayer encompasses both speaking and listening to God.
