Anointing of the Sick

By the sacred anointing of the sick and the prayer of the Priests, the whole Church commends those who are ill to the suffering and glorified Lord, that He may raise them up and save them.  Indeed, she exhorts them to contribute to the good of the People of God by freely uniting themselves to the Passion and death of Christ (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1499.)

0000.png

Those who desire to receive the Anointing of the Sick should contact the parish office to schedule the time and place to receive the Sacrament from a Priest.  Ordinarily, it is fitting to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation at the same time as the Anointing.  After reaching the age of reason (i.e., seven), the following persons should not hesitate to receive the Anointing of the Sick:

  • those in danger of death from sickness or old age,
  • those suffering a grave illness,
  • those whose condition becomes more serious,
  • those preparing for an operation due to serious illness, and
  • the elderly whose frailty has become more pronounced.

Those who are unconscious and in danger of death may receive the Sacrament if they would have wanted it.

Those suffering from mental illness, substance abuse, or some other form of addiction should avail themselves to frequent reception of the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Eucharist for spiritual help and nourishment.  Infants and children ages six and under who are in danger of death should receive Baptism and Confirmation if they have not already received them.
 

Blessings & Prayers for the Sick

Those whose sickness or age is not life-threatening and those preparing for minor surgery may request the Church’s blessing for the sick or the elderly from one of the parish’s Priests or Deacons.  Furthermore, if you would like to be added to the parish’s Prayer Line, click here.
 

“Last Rites”

Those preparing for death should make arrangements to receive the “Last Rites” of the Church—Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick, and Eucharist—insofar as it is possible.  The Sacraments are not administered after one has died.  Rather, prayers for the dead are offered by the Church for the repose of one’s soul.