Hands of Faith

Overview

Deep personal insights into the personalities and traditional practices of Brazilian healers

This volume reveals the lives and traditional healing practices of two dedicated, humble spiritual leaders from Brazil—Joao Fernandes de Carvalho and Otavia Pimental. Joao, known for his ability to write medical prescriptions while in a deep state of prayer, has healed thousands of people who have come to his house for treatment. Otavia, known for her ability to heal with the help of spirit guides, was taught by the spirit of a priest who lived with her family when she was a child. Their profiles are drawn through photographs, an audio CD, and interviews with family members, independent observers, and patients.

Reviews

“Anyone who is interested in alternative healing modalities or shamanic practices—and everyone with sensitivity to the value and plight of indigenous peoples—will benefit by making themselves acquainted with these works.” —Parabola

“The exquisitely designed and beautifully produced books in the Profiles in Healing series allow us to learn the traditional healing wisdom of cultures from around the world from the lips of the healers themselves.” —Ian M. Tattersall, Ph.D., curator of anthropology, American Museum of Natural History, New York

Author Biography

Bradford Keeney, PhD, is the author of Shaking Out the Spirits, Aesthetics of Change, and Mind in Therapy. He is the vice president of cultural affairs for the Ringing Rock Foundation.