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Prayer Power

New research shows faith saves lives

FT271

Last September, a thought-provoking study appeared in the Southern Medical Journal (2010; 103:864–9). Researchers from Indiana University showed that proximal intercessory prayer (PIP) by evangelical Christians improved auditory and visual acuity in patients from rural Mozambique with poor hearing and sight. PIP’s effects were greater than that produced by suggestion or hypnosis, which can also sharpen auditory and visual acuity.

PIP involves touch – such as an embrace or the placing of hands on the patient’s head – and praying close to the patient. Praying or knowing someone cares enough to pray for you may make you feel better by enhancing well-being, optimism and confidence (Medscape General Medicine 2007; 9:56).

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