Anointing of the Sick
“He called the twelve and began to send them out two by two,… and anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.”
— Mark 6:7, 6:13
The Scriptures tell us that people brought the sick to Jesus for healing and that He also sent the disciples out to heal the sick. It is the tradition of the Church to ask for healing of the body and soul. In the anointing of the sick, we are asking God to fill the hearts of the infirmed with peace and their bodies with His healing power.
Celebrating the Sacrament
It is most appropriate to celebrate the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, once known as the “Last Rites,” during times of serious illness. This illness may include upcoming surgeries, hospital stays, and prolonged illness or deteriorating health. We encourage you to call the rectory when you or a loved one would like to be anointed. Please don’t hesitate to call the rectory, there are times when it is completely appropriate to receive the sacrament multiple times during the same illness.
Please be aware that HIPPA laws are making it increasingly more difficult for us to know when our parishioners are in the hospital, so please make sure that you notify the parish when a visit would be appreciated.