Anointing of the Sick & Dying

 

"The Lord said to us through the apostle James, “Are there any who are sick among you? Let them send for the priests of the church and let the priests pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith will save the sick persons and the Lord will raise them up.”    James 5:14-15

 

The Church offers the sacrament of anointing to those who are seriously sick and dying - patients before serious surgery; elderly people who are very weak; sick children old enough to understand and be comforted by the sacrament, and those who are suffer from mental illness and addictions. Patients who are unconscious will also receive the sacrament since it would be their desire to receive it if they could voice their desire.

 

When to request the Anointing of the Sick and Dying?

 

When a family member or friend is ill, if you are preparing to have surgery, or if a loved one is dying – contact the office immediately to arrange for a time to celebrate this sacrament.  The Anointing of the Sick and the Dying have replaced what was formerly known as LAST RITES. If circumstances permit, do not wait until the person is unconscious or barely able to talk or respond.  The more conscious and alert the person is, the more fully they can take part in the celebration and be comforted. 

 

Please contact Fr. Eric at the parish office to arrange a time for the Anointing of the Sick or Dying.