Anointing of the Sick

The Lord himself showed great concern for the bodily and spiritual welfare of the sick and commanded his followers to do likewise. This is clear from the gospels, and above all from the existence of the sacrament of anointing, which he instituted and which is made know in the Letter of James. Since then the Church has never ceased to celebrate this sacrament for its members by the anointing and the prayer of its priests, commending those who are ill to the suffering and glorified Lord, that he may raise them up and save them (see James 5: 14-16).
(Pastoral Care of the Sick, 5)

The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is intended for those whose health is seriously impaired by physical or mental illness, old age, as well as those preparing for serious surgery or enduring a serious chronic illness. Children may also be anointed if they have sufficient use of reason to be strengthened by the sacrament. We, as members of the Church baptized into the passion, death, and resurrection of Christ, support the sick in their struggle against illness and we continue Christ's own mission of healing.

It is especially fitting that all baptized Christians share in this ministry of mutual charity within the Body of Christ by doing all that they can to help the sick return to health, by showing love for the sick, and by celebrating the sacraments with them. Like other sacraments, these too have a community aspect, which should be brought out as much as possible when they are celebrated.
(Pastoral Care of the Sick, 33)

If you, a member of your family, a friend, or a parishioner near you should receive the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, please come to one of the Sunday Masses on October 21 and 22.

We will pray as a community knowing that when one of us suffers, we all suffer. We will share in a prayer of faith asking God's help for those who are ill. During the laying on of hands the sick will know that they are the focus of the Church’s prayer. Through the anointing with oil, all present will know that the Spirit's healing, strengthening presence is in this person and in this community.

Please also remember that whenever you or a member of your family are in need of the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, you may contact the parish to schedule a time for our parish priest to visit at your home or in the hospital to celebrate the sacrament. 

May the healing touch of Christ through our presence and participation in the communal celebration of the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick be present for all enduring illness.