Anointing of the Sick
Through this Holy Anointing, may the Lord strengthen you with the grace of the Holy Spirit, may the Lord free you from sin and raise you up.
A sacrament is an outward sign of God’s presence and action in our lives. The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is the sign through which the Church prays for God’s healing presence in the life of a person who is seriously ill or injured.
This sacrament is not primarily intended only for the moment of death. Rather, it is best celebrated at the onset of serious illness or injury, when prayers for mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual healing can be most effective. A cancer diagnosis, impending surgery, the challenges of advanced age, or a serious accident are all occasions when receiving the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick may be appropriate.
Anointing may take place in church, at home, in a hospital or other health‑care facility, or in another suitable location. It is best celebrated when the person is conscious and able to participate, and ideally in the presence of family and friends.
If a loved one is in a hospital or health‑care facility, you may ask the nurse to arrange a visit from the hospital’s priest chaplain.
If you are preparing to enter the hospital for a non‑emergency procedure and would like to be anointed beforehand, one of our priests would be glad to take a few minutes after Mass to gather with you and your family for the anointing. Just ask.
If someone is confined to their home and would like a priest to come and anoint them, please contact the parish office.
If someone is dying, a priest can visit to offer the Last Rites, which include blessing the person, offering Holy Communion (if they are able to receive this food for the journey), and praying the prayers of commendation. This is distinct from the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, which is intended to ask for healing and strength for those facing serious illness or the effects of old age.
