He summoned the Twelve and began to send them out two by two…They anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them. Mark 6:7,13
In the Church's Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, through the ministry of the priest, it is Jesus who touches the sick to heal them spiritualy, and somtimes physically. His cures were signs of the arrival of the Kingdom of God. It is also known as "Last Rites" or "Extreme Unction."
When the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is given, if it be God's will, the person be physically healed of illness. But even if there is no physical healing, the primary effect of the Sacrament is a spiritual healing by which the sick person receives the Holy Spirit's gift of peace and courage to deal with the difficulties that accompany serious physical trials.
There is no need to wait until a person is at the point of death to receive the Sacrament. A careful judgment about the serious nature of the illness is sufficient. It is appropriate to request an Anointing anytime there is remote danger of death or serious physical suffering to be endured. Please do not wait until the last hours.
An Anointing stengthens spiritual life. It does not restore spiritual life (that is, forgive mortal sins). Please consider making a sincere Confession before receiving an Anointing.
The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick gives strength and support and can be administered to anyone struggling with an illness.
Who May Receive This Sacrament?
Formerly known as Last Rites or Extreme Unction, Anointing of the Sick is not just for those at the point of death, but may be received by anyone in danger of death from sickness or old age and those preparing for surgery. This ritual of healing is available not only for physical but also for mental and spiritual illness.
Spiritual Healing
The healing that occurs in this sacrament of anointing is not necessarily physical healing. While we believe that physical healing can occur through the great power of God, the grace that is infused through this special sacrament is the reminder of the eternal presence of God in our human suffering.
When To Receive This Sacrament?
It is a mistake to wait too long, such as until the advanced stages of a disease, to anoint a sick person. The fitting time for anointing is when the sick person begins to be in danger. In this way, the priest can be present when the time of need arrives. Please contact the parish as early as possible. In the event of an emergency, you may ask for a Catholic priest at the hospital. The parish nearest the hospital usually has a priest call to respond to an emergency.
Receiving the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick may be arranged by calling the Parish Office at 201-659-1114.