Scientific and Pastoral Perspectives on Intercessory Prayer: An Exchange Between Larry Dossey, MD, and Health Care Chaplains

Larry Dossey MD has written extensively on intercessory prayer and healing. In this pioneering volume he offers a brief (but powerful) presentation on the subject, followed by the critical responses of eight health-care chaplains working in the trenches. It is a book that raises more questions than it answers, questions that need to be raised and studied seriously. What is prayer? How do you conduct research on intercessory prayer, or, as some would have it, distant healing? Is it legitimate to do research on intercessory prayer, or is that putting God to the test? Does it matter who conducts the prayers, what denomination they adhere to, and what is their intention in praying? Disturbing questions. The answers? I won't tell you, of course, because the nine authors don't come to conclusions. They engage in lively and enlightening discussion which will get the reader to thinking deeply.The book is extremely well-written, and all the contributors deserve high marks for this unlikely accomplishment. Although the subject matter is sometimes complex and difficult, the text is surprisingly readable. I found myself eagerly turning pages. I particularly enjoyed the clinical vignettes offered by some of the chaplains.In sum: if you are at all interested in the subject of intercessory prayer, you will love this book and you should have it on your shelf. Reviewed by Louis N. Gruber.

I found this book to be deeply thought-provoking. I especially identify with Larry Dossey's thoughts on intercessory prayer, since I am a nurse and an energy worker in the healthcare field. I had not considered in depth many of the ideas presented, but believing that thoughts are energy, and that prayer is expressed thought, then the effect of intercessory prayer as a transfer of energy makes sense to me. I enjoyed this book.

Dr. Dossey bridges science and faith in a meaningful way, with real life evidence of a higher being.