Cursillo #147

Cursillo #147 is dedicated to the Archangel Raphael. Raphael is one of seven angels assigned specific duties by God. He is referred to as the Divine Healer, patron saint of the ill and their earthly caregivers, and a guiding light for healthcare professionals. His influence promotes overall health, healing journey/healing miracles, youthfulness, and the joy of living. He has a bond with the natural environment so is frequently depicted in green which represents life, growth and healing.

Most of the scripture about Raphael is found in the book of Tobit from the Apocrypha. Tobit and Sarah were people of faith and willing to ask God for healing. 3:16 “At that very moment, the prayers of both of them (Tobit and Sarah) were heard in the glorious presence of God. So Raphael was sent to heal both of them; Tobit, by removing the white films from his eyes, so that he might see God’s light with his eyes; and Sarah, daughter of Raguel, by giving her in marriage to Tobias son of Tobit, and by setting her free from the wicked demon Asmodeus.”

God sent Raphael to intervene in the journey Tobias needed to take and Tobit trusted Raphael because he said he was from his kindred, the Isrealites. Tobias did not know who Raphael was but he listened to his wise counsel and had faith in what he told him about God. 5:4 “He (Tobias) went out and found the angel Raphael standing in front of him; but he did not perceive that he was an angel of God.” 5:10 … to Tobit: ”Take courage; the time is near for God to heal you; take courage.”

Raphael reminds Tobit and Tobias what they should do for all of the blessings God has given them. 12:6 “Bless God and acknowledge him in the presence of all the living for the good things he has done for you. Bless and sing praise to his name. With fitting honor declare to all people the deeds of God. Do not be slow to acknowledge him.”

It is very rare that an angel sent to watch over us reveals their identity. It’s rare that we slow down long enough to look and listen. So we must watch for signs of those in our midst who might be working for God and remember to give thanks. 12:12 “So now when you and Sarah prayed, it was I who brought and read the record of your prayer before the glory of the Lord, and likewise whenever you would bury the dead… And at the same time God sent me to hear you and Sarah, your daughter-in-law. I am Raphael, one of the seven angels who stand ready and enter before the glory of the Lord” 12:17 “Do not be afraid; peace be with you. Bless God forevermore. As for me, when I was with you, I was not acting on my own will, but by the will of God. Bless him each and every day; sing his praises.”

As Cursillistas, we commit to a Rule of Life and acknowledge that Christ is counting on us. Opportunities for serving are all around us but how often do we notice them? How often do we take the opportunity to create a holy moment for someone who might be hurting in mind, body or spirit? Do we, without hesitation, provide intercessory prayer for someone in need of healing? We sometimes say that the only thing we can do for someone who needs to be healed, whether it be through life or death, is to pray. It can sound like it was a last resort when in reality, it is the most important and should be the first response.

May we all consider the following questions:

• What “film” do we have over our eyes that prevents us from seeing God?
• Do I pray for healing for myself and others without hesitation and whether that healing might be through continued life on this earth or eternal life with God?
• Do we recognize signs of the healing presence of others and give thanks for them?
• How will I serve those around me who are in need of healing in body, mind or spirit?
• What will I do to take care of my own body, mind and spirit so that I can serve others?
• How will I acknowledge God in the presence of all for the things He has done for me?

Hymn 282, stanza 4 says “Send from the heavens Raphael thine archangel, health-bringer blessed, aiding every sufferer, that, in thy service, he may wisely guide us, healing and blessing.” May we all look for the healing and blessing that we encounter and do our part to share our healing faith.

I covet your prayers for Cursillo #147!

Mary Ellen Haile, Lay Rector Cursillo #147

Spiritual Directors

• Head Spiritual Director: the Rev. Mary Balfour Dunlap (Church of the Resurrection, Greenville)
• the Rev. Deacon Janet Atkins (St. Margaret’s, Boiling Springs)
• the Rev. Jimmy Hartley (Trinity Cathedral, Columbia)

• Head Cha: Leigh Matthews (Trinity Cathedral, Columbia)
• Kathryn Hix (Christ Church, Greenville)
• Donna Knowles (St. Augustine of Canterbury, Aiken)
• Genny Alert (Church of the Cross, Columbia)
• Walt Dorn (Trinity Cathedral, Columbia)
• Terri Bailey (St. Martin’s in the Field, Columbia)
• Murray Dunlap (Church of the Resurrection, Greenwood)

• Carol DuBose (Trinity Cathedral, Columbia)
• Elizabeth Dorn (Trinity Cathedral, Columbia)
• Michael Whitfield (Church of the Resurrection, Greenwood)
• Karen Whitfield (Church of the Resurrection, Greenwood)
• Gloria Talley (St. Alban’s, Lexington)
• Mike Talley (St. Alban’s, Lexington)

• Head Music Cha: Sharon Landis (Christ Church, Greenville)
• Wesley Hix (Christ Church, Greenville)
• Stan Bailey (St. Martin’s in the Field, Columbia)