Big OOPS here Jo, sorry! "However, there was one area in which the Christian priests didn't venture. They were not physical healers." Couldn't be more far from the truth, see
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hospital#Medieval_Europe Whilst the 'village priest' would normally not be a healer, monks and nuns in monasteries were, not only amongst themselves, but also for the people around them. If you ever visit an old monastery with guided tours / museum you will typically find a herbal garden and an apothecary plus a hospital wing. SY