In the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, God offers us his healing power. This sacrament is administered to the dying, the gravely ill, and those who will undergo a serious surgery by providing the person spiritual strength and peace of the soul from one’s suffering and illness. Traditionally this sacrament has been called Extreme Unction or Last Rites.
The sacrament may be celebrated within the context of a Mass, or outside of it, depending on the needs of the individual who is sick. If the individual is not able to come to the church, the sacrament may be celebrated wherever they may be.
“By the sacred anointing of the sick and the prayer of the priests the whole Church commends those who are ill to the suffering and glorified Lord, that he may raise them up and save them. And indeed she exhorts them to contribute to the good of the People of God by freely uniting themselves to the Passion and death of Christ.”
-Catechism of the Catholic Church 1499
When to Call a Priest
Please contact the parish office as soon as possible if you or your loved one is:
Diagnosed with a serious disease or terminal illness
Going to have a major surgery
Homebound or under hospice care
Receiving the Sacrament of Anointing should not be delayed until the last minute and a person who has been anointed does not need to be anointed again within the same illness.
