Final answer:
Intercessory prayer, particularly the practice of laying on of hands in Christian traditions, is believed to aid individuals through the collective spiritual support and prayer of a community, which may provide healing and strength regardless of the specific faith tradition involved.
Step-by-step explanation:
Intercessory prayer is a practice where individuals pray on behalf of others, seeking to make a positive impact in their lives. One form of this, in the Christian tradition, is laying on of hands, a ritual found in the Bible used for conveying the Holy Spirit and for healing. In modern religious practices, notably among Pentecostal and Evangelical churches, this involves congregants placing their hands on a person seeking help, praying for them to receive strength, healing, and God's grace.
These practices make a difference by pooling spiritual and social resources to support individuals in distress. Whether dealing with social, mental, or physical issues, the participants believe the collective prayer and physical touch can facilitate the movement of the Holy Spirit to provide a "powerful antidote to illness," transcending specific faith traditions.