Anointing of the Sick

“The sufferings and sicknesses of human persons have always been considered among the greatest difficulties that disturb them. Yet those who profess the Christian faith, even if they feel and experience these difficulties, are, nevertheless, helped by the light of faith, so that they perceive more deeply the mystery of suffering and more strongly endure the suffering themselves. For not only do they know from the words of Christ what sickness means and can be for their salvation and for the salvation of the world, but they are hardly unaware that those who are sick are loved by Christ, who visited and healed those with illnesses many times in his life…

This Sacrament offers to the sick the grace of the Holy Spirit, by which the whole person is helped toward salvation, is lifted up by the faithfulness of God, and is strengthened against the temptations of evil and the anxiety of death. Consequently, the person may not only patiently bear but even fight against evils and also regain health if it is beneficial to their spiritual salvation. If it is necessary, the Sacrament also brings forgiveness of sins and the completion of Christian Penance.”

-The Order of the Anointing of the Sick and of their Pastoral Care

Who can be anointed?

  • Anyone who is facing the danger of death should be anointed as soon as possible. This includes those who are in the hospital as well as those who have been put into hospice care at home or at a facility.

  • The Church encourages her members who are aging, especially when faced with physical and spiritual challenges that come with the process, to be strengthened by this Sacrament.

  • Those who are facing illness which threatens his or her life as well as those who are going to have sugery with risk to their lives are able to receive this Sacrament before the surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Please call the parish office. If it is after hours, listen to the phone message until you hear the number for emergencies. Press that number, if the priest does not answer, leave a voicemail with your name, number, and any information about the person needing anointed (location, name, and condition).

  • It is always better to call the pastor as soon as possible so that arrangements can be made calmly to receiving the anointing. Plus, when it is arranged beforehand, more family members can be present to pray with the sick person.