Answering the Call Joining the Christian Healing Ministry, Starting a Chapter & Becoming an Ambassador of God
ANSWER THE CALL! Every Christian has, at some point, wrestled in prayer against the illness of a friend, loved one, or themselves. We long to witness healing such as Christ himself performed when He walked this earth. Christ said that we would do greater things than He did; but we were never meant to do them alone, and we need the power of the Holy Spirit for healing and miracles. If you have picked up this booklet or perhaps someone has given this copy to you know that God is already calling you to learn more about Christian Healing and The Order of St. Luke. If you have any questions, please contact our office toll-free at (877) 992-5222 or by email at Office@OrderofStLuke.org Visit our website at www.orderofstluke.org. CONTENTS CHRISTIAN HEALING & THE ORDER OF ST LUKE STARTING AN OSL CHAPTER ATTRACTING & KEEPING MEMBERS The International Order of St. Luke the Physician is an ecumenical organization dedicated to the Christian healing ministry. The Order of St. Luke has members throughout North America and the world and welcomes inquiries about the healing ministry. For more information about the OSL, call or write: The Order of St. Luke P.O. Box 780909 San Antonio, TX 78278-0909 Toll Free: 877-992-5222 Email: Office@OrderofStLuke.org www.orderofstluke.org 1 5 8
CHRISTIAN HEALING & THE ORDER OF ST LUKE And He called the twelve together, and gave them power and authority of all the demons and to heal diseases. And He sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God, and to perform healing. And departing, they began going out among the villages, preaching the gospel, and healing the sick. (Luke 9:1-6). What is Christian healing? That is a question that is often asked and has many explanations. But really, the answer is very simple. Christian healing is asking Jesus Christ what to do about any disease and doing what he asks us to do so that He may bring wholeness from the inside out. It is not a process of magic in which we get God to do what we ask. It is praying, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Christian healing is the manifestation of the creative power of God s love as He comes to make us a new creation in Jesus Christ. It is concerned not only with the stewardship of our body of flesh and blood, but with our ultimate relationship with God as our Father, Jesus Christ as our Savior and Healer, and Holy Spirit, as the executive of our Father s will for us as He revealed in Jesus Christ. What does Jesus ask of us? Jesus commanded the disciples to heal every kind of disease, every kind of sickness, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, and cast out the unclean spirits. He gave them the authority and power to do this. Seven times His followers were told to heal. How many times do we have to be told before we heed His word? His disciples learned from Jesus even as we do today. Jesus healed wherever He went. Of the 1,257 narrative verses in the four Gospels, 484 related specifically to healing. We learn to heal the sick today by His commission, the empowerment He has made available to us and the model of practice he has shown us. Want to know more about Christian healing? You can do this by studying the Word of God, attending church and Bible classes, reading books, listening to tapes, going to seminars, and attending conferences on healing. All of these will help, but more help and experienced guidance may be needed. That s why those called to the healing ministry belong in OSL. What is The International Order of St. Luke the Physician? Known by many as OSL, The International Order of St. Luke the Physician is made up of clergy, health professionals, and lay people who believe healing is an essential part of the teaching and practice of our Lord Jesus Christ and that the healing ministry of Christ belongs in the Church today. It is an interdenominational Christian order of faith, prayer, and service with Chapters all over the world.. 1
OSL Members believe... God s desire for us is wholeness and health. God uses many avenues for healing (spiritual, medical, and social) and each should be supportive of the other. Healing was an important part of Christ s ministry and is intended to be a part of His disciples work in every generation. Christian healing is accomplished through faith in Christ and through subjecting our entire life to the scrutiny and counsel of God. God works through humans to do His healing. We must make ourselves fit and willing vessels. We must be supportive of one another in the various ways God chooses to heal spiritually, emotionally, or physically. Jesus Christ lives today and He still possesses all power on earth as He does in heaven. The revival of Christian healing in churches today could be the means of the greatest advance of Christianity in this century. Why join OSL? The Lord has commissioned us to go into the world and heal the sick. Jesus taught and equipped his disciples for ministry. By becoming a member of OSL, you will learn more about Christian healing, how to apply this learning to real situations, and how to be part of larger, supportive community. Studying and Learning Those who are in the healing ministry know that to be equipped requires continual study and education through the guidance and direction of the Holy Spirit. Only when we are prepared can we be the best conduit for God s healing love. Applying what you learn As an OSL member, you will have many opportunities to apply what you have learned about Christian healing to real life situations. This allows members to expand our ministry by learning from the experiences of others, sharing problems, listening, and praying together. Community Support We also need fellowship of others in the healing ministry. The OSL community begins locally and expands the globe. This community provides insight, encouragement, and opportunity to share and learn more. Why belong to an OSL Chapter? Despite all of these reasons, the question is still asked: Can t we have a ministry of Christian Healing in our church without OSL? The answer of course is yes. Yes, you can have a healing ministry within a single congregation. But is this what Jesus has commissioned us to do? Jesus appointed 70 other disciples and sent them on ahead of Him, two by two, into every town and place where He himself was about to come. And He said to them, The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest. Whenever you enter a town 2
and they receive you, eat what is set before you; heal the sick in it and say to them, The kingdom of God has come near to you. The 70 returned with joy saying, Lord, even the demons are subject to your name. (Luke 10:1-1,7). Why did Jesus send His disciples out two by two instead of by themselves (see Luke 10:1-1-7)? In His great wisdom, He knew that a group of dedicated people are more effective than people on their own. He did this because shared ministry is lighter and alleviates the exhaustion, stresses and strains the disciples might have encountered. Partners support, help to learn, and draw strength from each other. They provide more responses, as each person brings his own contribution of talents and experience when needed. Today, groups of dedicated people are needed for the same reasons. OSL provides this network of fellowship linking members all over the world. As OSL Members, we can work as a Body within a single congregation, but the purpose of OSL is to work with the Churches or healing centers the whole Body of Christ. The purpose is to come together as a Chapter and develop the healing ministry in the community and nearby areas by providing healing events, regular healing services, and meetings. It provides a way in which all people can gather together to seek wholeness in body, soul, and spirit, and an opportunity to provide resource materials to all who seek more information on Christian healing. OSL has wide acceptance everywhere with Chapters all over the world. It is a vital, vibrant fellowship of believers of all Christian denominations who have seen a spiritual awakening and renewal throughout Christendom, including the recovery of the healing ministry of Jesus Christ as a part of the normal life in many Churches. Through its wide membership, it is available in throughout North America and in many parts of the world to bring Jesus healing prayer to those in need. How do I join OSL? If you are called to be a participant, not a spectator, in the healing ministry of Jesus Christ as He has exhorted us, then join others with the same calling by becoming a member of OSL. The first step is to apply for Associate Membership. The simplest way is to apply on the OSL website at www.orderofstluke.org. You simply enter your information, select a Chapter that is closest to where you live, and pay for your membership. If you prefer, you may also complete the application found on page 4 of this brochure. A member from the Chapter you will join will contact you and provide detailed information about the Chapter and answer any questions you may have. The name of the Chapter Convener and Chaplain is also listed on the OSL website by Chapter, should you want to contact them directly. Or you may contact the OSL Office toll-free at (877) 492-5222. 2 Ways to Apply for OSL Membership 1. Go to www.orderofstluke.org and click on join OSL and follow the instructions. 2. Cut out the application on page 4, complete the information and mail it (along with payment) to the OSL Office.. 3
Associate Membership As an Associate member, you will receive a certificate of Associate Membership, a copy of the OSL Handbook, OSL s Bible study project The Healing Ministry of Jesus, a Certificate of OSL Membership, and an OSL lapel pin to wear at Chapter meetings, events, and in the community you serve. Affiliation with an OSL Chapter during this period will serve to facilitate the study as well as acquaint the Associate Member with the general work of the Order in the area. In addition you will receive a year s subscription to Sharing magazine (published 6 times a year). Sharing is the official magazine of OSL and publishes theological articles and inspirational witness stories of God s healing love. Members are encouraged to share their thoughts and stories for publication. Full Membership To achieve full membership in the Order, an Associate Member must read three books from the list of recommended books in addition to completing the Bible study project. After six months as an Associate Member, and upon completion of the required study, an Associate Member may apply to an OSL Chaplain or Regional Director to be inducted as a full member. Membership entitles the person to a voice in the internal affairs of the Order, plus other helps and benefits as are provided from time to time. The member is also eligible to vote and to hold office. What if there is not a Chapter in my area? You re interested in the healing ministry, you ve applied for Associate Membership and you ve checked the OSL website and there is not a Chapter nearby. You have two options. One, you can join the Online Chapter. This Chapter is a collection of members who unable to meet in person but communicate and meet either online or by phone. You can join the Online Chapter when you register on the OSL website. Another option is to start an OSL Chapter in your area. 4 JOIN OSL! go to www.orderofstluke.org or complete the application below Title OSL Associate Membership Application Last name First name(s) Street address City, state, zip Phone E-mail address (print clearly) Membership kit and first-year dues (Includes a subscription to Sharing magazine) Single membership: $45 U.S. $55 Canada in U.S. funds Couple membership: $55 U.S. $65 Canada in U.S. funds To receive membership kit by Priority Mail in U.S., add $5 Addresses outside North America, add $20 for mailing of Sharing magazine. Membership dues renewal notices will be mailed each anniversary of your membership. Make checks payable to OSL and mail with this completed application to: International Order of St. Luke P. O. Box 780909 San Antonio TX 78278 rev 10/2013 ATC
STARTING AN OSL CHAPTER When an individual or group believes that it is God s call on their lives to form an OSL Chapter, they should contact the OSL Office for information on how to start a chapter and to apply for membership. OSL Chapters do not have to be limited to members of a single congregation. Some of the most effective chapters have members from several congregations of a variety of denominational and non-denominational Christian churches. Called to do more The need for God s ministry is increasing at such a rapid rate that more and more laborers are required to handle the needs of the future. Though Jesus was the epitome of the anointed man of God, He had to be taken away in order for the Holy Spirit to come and empower the apostles and disciples to increase the scope of ministry. Today the individually anointed servants of God are the great army of ordinary people and ministry teams empowered by the Holy Spirit to meet the huge demand for Christian healing ministry. Any new chapter must find its call from God. It may begin with one person whom God has touched and urged into the healing ministry, or it may be a group of people with a common interest in starting a Chapter. A new Chapter must be birthed in prayer as that person or group seeks God s will about the shape of the ministry to be established. It continues with a group of people who will make the commitment to meet together regularly for prayer and study. It does not require a large group. Just those who are committed to God and to each other to seek His will. Finding a Chaplain The Chaplain serves as the spiritual leader of the Chapter with the responsibility of encouraging and nurturing the spiritual life of the members and the spiritual growth of the Chapter as a whole body especially in the areas of healing and wholeness. Clergy should purchase the OSL Clergy Handbook available on the OSL website or by calling the OSL Resource Office. If there is not already a member of the clergy involved with the group, pray that God will raise up a Chaplain that is from the clergy in your area. It is best to have a Chaplain who is prepared to conduct a regular healing service for the Chapter and for everyone who seeks to avail themselves of this ministry. Chaplains should be reminded that Christian healing is not just a ministry of the clergy. It is a ministry of the whole Body of Christ and the lay members of OSL must have the opportunity to exersize their ministry to others both as individuals and as teams. Contacting the Chapter s Regional Director OSL has 14 Regional Directors in North America and they provide leadership, counsel, and representation for the Chapters of the Order. A complete list of the Regional Directors can be found on the OSL website, in Sharing magazine, or by contacting the OSL Business Office. Your Chapter s Regional Director or Chaplain will induct Associate Members from your Chapter into the. 5
Order. This is a good opportunity to plan a healing event. This event will let the whole community know of the presence and work of the OSL Chapter and when it meets for study, prayer, and healing services. For more information about planning and hosting a healing event order How to Run andorganize an Healing Event brochure online at www.orderofstluke. org or by calling the OSL Resource Center. Electing Chapter Leaders Each Chapter elects a Convener, a Co-Convener, a Secretary and a Treasurer for the purpose of prayer, planning, and business. Once these positions are filled and the Chaplain has been identified, your Chapter can now become a provisional Chapter. Depending on the size and needs of your Chapter, you may want to add other positions such as: a communications person, a librarian, a hospitality person, or a music person. The OSL Handbook provides more information on these additional positions. Convener & Co-Convener One of the most important jobs in the Chapter is the Convener. The Convener is responsible for planning and organizing the activities of the Chapter and promoting resources for study and education. In cooperation with the Chaplain, the Convener plans and arranges interesting and challenging programs, as well as encourages active participation of the Chapter s members in activities. Consult the OSL Handbook for more information about Conveners. The Co-Convener simply assists the Convener, but is an important position to have in a large Chapter. Secretary This person coordinates all communications to the members and to the community. This can be done by email, postcards, phone calls, etc. This person may also record any minutes from the last Chapter meeting if the Chapter chooses to keep minutes. Treasurer This person collects the Chapter dues and manages financial obligations. Checklist for New Chapters 1 Apply for OSL Membership. Each person applies for membership and pays the first year dues to receive New Member Kit, Sharing magazine, and more! 2 Elect Chapter Leaders. You must have at least an elected Chaplain and Convener to start a Chapter. 3 Name and register the Chapter. Select a name for the Chapter and then contact OSL Webmaster to officially register your Chapter. 4 Have Chapter Meetings. Designate a set time, location and agenda for the Chapter meetings. Publicize meetings to the community. 5 Hold Study Sessions. Encourage others in the community to join the Chapter s study of OSL materials. This will increase your Chapter s membership. 6 Full Membership Induction. When the OSL Study is completed, contact the Chapter s Regional Director to hold a Induction Service. 7 Plan a Healing Event. Reach out to the Community, attract new members and allow Chapter members to put teachings into experience. Hold one once a year! 6
Chapter Meetings It is vital that each Chapter establish a schedule for their meetings with frequency and times of meetings agreeable to the majority of the members. Some meet monthly and others more frequently. Many of the healthiest Chapters seem to be those who meet weekly, but each chapter has different circumstances and needs. Resource Library If the Chapter does not have one, it should consider establishing a library and encouraging its use by members and others interested in the healing ministry. In addition to books, the library may include audio and video tapes, magazines, articles, and other resource material. Choosing a location to meet The place chosen for the meetings is also important. The Chapter may meet in a church, home, or other location depending on the wishes and size of the group. It is desirable that the place be safe, accessible for everyone, and comfortable with no distractions. The members should be kept informed of all meetings. They may be called ahead of time of each meeting or notified by e-mail or post card. Typical meeting agenda Each chapter may decide on the content or format for their meetings, remembering that the meetings are to be a spiritual experience for those attending. Some of the elements for successful meetings are: Music, prayer, and meditation Scripture readings Teachings and discussion Communion when appropriate Prayer and personal ministry The length of the meetings may vary. If held frequently, the meetings may be shorter than those held once a month, but generally the meetings may last from one and a half to two hours depending on the program. Communication It is helpful to keep members up to date on chapter plans and activities. Newsletters, e-mails or mailed notices from the Chapter may be sent to all members and also to other OSL Chapters in the area to keep them abreast of what is planned.. 7
ATTRACTING & KEEPING MEMBERS Involving Members The involvement of members begins with the Chaplain and Convener. If the Chaplain is active in the Chapter s activities and plans, comes to the meetings, and encourages the spiritual walk of members, the Chapter will be healthy. Likewise, if the Convener responsibly organizes the activities, plans challenging and interesting programs, and promotes the healing ministry and OSL, the Chapter will grow and flourish. Advanced Study and Training A goal for each Chapter is to help new members complete the study materials in the OSL Workbook, The Healing Ministry of Jesus Christ. This study can be an ongoing activity, as many chapters find it beneficial to explore these healings a number of times and in different ways. The Going Deeper studies were developed specifically to be advanced studies for those who have completed the OSL Workbook, The Healing Ministry of Jesus Christ. These advanced studies may be 8 enhanced by having members or outside speakers prepare and present supplemental information. Another way is to use books, video or audio tapes, or other resource materials that are available from many sources. A list of OSL books can be found on the OSL website at www.orderofstluke.org. Guest Speakers Guest speakers may be invited from time-to-time to speak at the meetings on some aspects of healing. Members should be encouraged to delve deeper into areas of healing in which they are interested or in the direction the Lord seems to be using them. As members knowledgeable in certain subjects, they may lead teachings at meetings or workshops. Praying for the Sick Chapter leaders need to teach members, by word and example, how to pray for, to lay hands on, to anoint with oil (if permitted by those in authority), and to minister to those who are sick physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Instruction should be carefully taught by the Chaplain or by qualified, experienced people who can impart the in-depth training and supervision needed to effectively prepare members to pray for the sick. While Divine call and Spirit empowerment are essential for ministry, so are meticulous instruction and guidance. Jesus spent three years carefully training His closest followers for the work they would do in the community. So it is fitting that each Chapter should make sure that their prayer teams are thoroughly prepared. This preparation and training should include specifics on how to pray for shut-ins, those in hospitals, or in nursing homes. As part of visitation and prayer, spending time with the sick or disturbed, listening and comforting them, and tending to their spiritual needs are all conducive to healing. Bringing them books, tapes, Sharing magazine, church bulletins, or other materials is also helpful.
Prayer Teams Many chapters provide prayer teams to minister healing prayer to those in need during Sunday and mid-week service, and at special events. In some cases, the teams are available following Communion or at the end of the church service for those needing more prayer time. Most teams try to be available at other times for special needs. In addition, specially-trained teams may be equipped to minister inner healing, soaking prayer, and deliverance. Prayer Line If the church does not have a prayer line (or prayer chain), the Chapter may desire to develop one, using not only members but also people from the congregation that the Chaplain knows would be suitable. This would make the prayer line more of a church function, but all members would be encouraged to participate. The prayer line is a valuable source for discovering who needs prayer, as well as an aid in setting up visitations to the sick. Healing Events or Conferences One of the most effective way to attract new members is through healing events or conferences. Holding one or more such events a year not only publicizes the healing ministry, but exposes many newcomers to what Christian healing and OSL is all about. Healing events and conferences can reach out with the message of Jesus healing love to all Christian denominational and non-denominational churches, as well as other Christian groups in the community and surrounding areas. Each Chapter is expected to hold at least one healing event a year. Guest Speakers In connection with a healing event or conference and with the approval of the clergy, a Chapter may ask the guest speaker/healing event leader to teach a Sunday Bible class or give the Sunday sermon. This will give the regular congregation some exposure to OSL and to the Christian healing ministry that they might not otherwise receive. Suppers and Teachings Another way is to involve the congregation is to have a covered-dish supper in connection with a healing event or conference. OSL members and non-members are asked to bring food and all are invited to stay for teachings and activities afterwards. Healing Services Holding a regular public healing service in a Christian church (once a week or once a month)can accomplish much of what a healing event or conference does. Many can be made aware of the healing ministry of Jesus if notices are placed in newspapers, on radio and television stations, and if posters are placed in strategic locations throughout the area. Personal invitations can be given to family and friends. As with healing events, when something of substance and value is offered at the healing service, word will spread and people will come. Workshops Workshops can be provided from time to time with clergy or lay members leading the teaching on various aspects of healing. Such workshops can be held at OSL meetings, at other Christian church organizations in or outside the community. Be sure to invite people from all Christian denominations and backgrounds. Advertising and Publicity Notices may be placed in a church s weekly pew sheets or in monthly newsletters about upcoming healing events, healing services and Chapter meetings. Copies of Sharing magazine, ways to pray for specific needs, and documented healings could also be included. Notices or advertisements in the religion section of the local newspaper about meetings, special events, or teachings on healing may also be effective. Other churches or groups that are involved or appear interested in the healing ministry may be contacted. Share with them the benefits of joining the Order including copies of Sharing magazine and a copy of this brochure.. 9
P.O. Box 780909 San Antonio, Texas 78278-0909 Be a part of the Christian Healing ministry! The International Order of St. Luke the Physician was founded in 1932 by John Gaynor Banks with the purpose to restore the ministry of healing not only to its proper place in Christian churches, but to extend healing to those in communities around the world in need of Jesus healing touch. We are an ecumenical organization dedicated to the Christian healing ministry with members throughout North America and the world. For more information or to apply for membership, visit our website at www.orderofstluke.org or call: (210) 492-5222, or toll-free: (877) 992-5222 or email: Office@OrderofStLuke.org Rev. 10-2013 2013 The International Order of St. Luke the Physician.