Anointing of the Sick

Is any among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith will save the sick man, and the Lord will raise him up; and if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. (James 5:14-15)

This used to be called "Last Rites" or "Extreme Unction." Anointing of the Sick is not necessarily meant to be received only at the end of life. Parishioners who are seriously ill - in any way - should request this Sacrament. The illness may be of the spirit, for example, a severe depression. Or it may simply be the physical decline associated with old age.

The healing ministry of the Church follows that of Jesus and is concerned with the healing of the whole person, body, mind, and spirit. The goal of the Sacrament is this total healing. Sometimes a person is cured of a bodily illness. Sometimes there is psychological or spiritual healing. What is certain is that the healing taking place strengthens a sick person and helps them to bear illness.

Anointing of the Sick is routinely offered during Advent and Lent in conjunction with Mass at 11:00 am on First Fridays.

Anointing of the Sick:  If you wish to receive this sacrament, or to arrange for a family member or friend to receive it, please call the Parish Center. The Anointing of the Sick is also offered during Advent and Lent at the First Friday Mass for Seniors. (See Senior Groups)