RING AROUND THE DEMON

The laying on of hands indicates the transference of something. According to St. Thomas Aquinas the "imposition of hands is made, to signify some abundant effect of grace, through those on whom the hands are laid being..." The laying on of hands is also a symbolic act of delegating Authority. This is something we Catholics try to teach and defend to Protestants. Only those in Holy Orders can confer Sacramental Grace or lay hands on the sick. “Let him call for the presbyters of the Church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord…” does not mean lay people!

In addition, there is a real risk of demon transference when the laity is involved with the laying on of hands. Charismatic prayer meetings and charismatic conferences are prolific breeding grounds for demon transference. The “turn to your left and lay your hands on the person next to you, now turn to your right and lay your hands on the person next to you” pretty much ensures that if there is a demon in the house it will be passed around. Under these circumstances the transference of demons is guaranteed.
