The U.S. Catholic Bishops last month advised Catholic chaplains, health care facilities and retreat centers not to promote or support Reiki therapy, a Japanese alternative healing practice.
The practice of Reiki, the bishops’ said, "finds no support either in the findings of natural science or in Christian belief."
"A Catholic who puts his or her trust in Reiki would be operating in the realm of superstition," the bishops said.
The statement, issued by the bishops’ Committee on Doctrine, can be found on the U.S. Bishops’ web site.
After its publication, NCR asked two Catholic women who have been practitioners of Reiki to share their experiences. Both said it has enhanced their spiritual lives. Neither sees it as conflicting with their Catholic beliefs.
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Lauri Lumby Schmidt tells her story. She is a Reiki Master. She says it has allowed here to continue the healing ministry of Jesus.
Maureen Griffin tells her story. She has been a Reiki practitioner for nearly six years and says it has been an invitation to hear God's answers.
Here's NCR's first story on this issue: Reiki: good health, spirituality - or only superstition?
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