"We want the curriculum to provide students with knowledge on how to live in those aspects of the life of Jesus we see in the Gospel. Most often, his teachings and his goodness are emphasized, while the supernatural dimension is easily overlooked," Principal Egil Elling Ellingsen told the Norwegian daily Aftonbladet.
However, the IMI Church's plans met with skepticism. Professor Bård Mæland of the VID Scientific College argued that establishing courses in healing creates a sensational touch and provides students with unrealistic expectations.
Psychologist Kari Halstensen called the IMI Church's curriculum "thoughtful," yet at the same time warned of possible pitfalls.
"In a narcissistic time it is also important that knowledge of and contact with the supernatural is managed with great care and a lot of prudence," Kari Halstensen told the Norwegian news outlet Vårt Land, venturing that it was important to learn the motivation of the applicants.
In 2011, the IMI church came under fire for sending confirmees to the streets to conduct faith healing. After being taught about healing through prayer and the laying on of hands, they were sent out to test what they had learned in practice.
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