I have often wondered about this and the obvious fear around it. I was very involved in the healing and deliverance ministry years ago and witnessed many healings through others and sometimes my own prayer. Some of the people I knew back then now have church approved healing and deliverance ministries. When I knew them they did not have approval but yet had very powerful prayers and it was usual practice in those days to lay hands on people. I never witnessed any ill effects from others or myself being prayed over. All I ever saw was blessings being poured out and God being glorified. There was no fear, only discernment and lots of love. I no longer move in those circles for the last number of years and perhaps things have changed?
A distinction: Laying on of the hands is not necessarily sanctioned, but the laying hands on the head should be considered a posture of headship. Think of ordination, or an abbot praying over one of the monks in his care. It's paternal and parental in nature. But certainly praying with another while holding their hands or while laying a hand on their shoulder is OK, I believe. Intercessory prayer can be enhanced by touch, also, especially within the family when parents pray for their children. As a deacon, I don't possess the authority of a priest, but while serving in the nursing home, I would pray with a resident while holding their hand or laying a hand on their shoulder. Touch is important.
Another example that comes to mind: a family praying the Rosary together. I believe I shared this story once. I came to the nursing home and was told one of the male residents whom I was close to, was failing and near death-the family had arrived and was at bedside. He had been anointed within the last week by a priest. When I came to the room the family was lovingly present, but restless, unsure what to do because the gentleman was silent and unresponsive. So I pulled out my beads and suggested we pray the Rosary together. I can't remember which glorious mystery we were praying, but we had just finished the 1st half of a Hail Mary. Suddenly the patient opened his eyes and prayed "...Holy Mary, Mother of God pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen!" He then closed his eyes and died shortly thereafter. Especially with Our Lady present, when grace abounds in a loved-filled setting, a family can receive great assurance, even in the face of death!
