The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick has as its purpose the conferral of a special grace on the Christian who has been badly injured, is gravely ill or of old age. After having received the Sacrament, it may be received again if the person's condition worsens. The celebration consists essentially in the anointing of the forehead and hands of the patient accompanied by the liturgical prayer of the celebrant asking for the special grace of this Sacrament. The actual anointing can take place in a family home, a hospital, care facility or church for a single person or a whole group of persons. It is fitting to celebrate this Sacrament along with the reception of the Eucharist.

The special grace of this Sacrament has certain effects: the uniting of the person to the passion of Christ, for the person's own good and that of the whole church; the strengthening, peace and courage to endure the sufferings involved in the person's condition; the forgiveness of sins if the person was not able to obtain it through the Sacrament of Penance; restoration of health if it is conducive to the salvation of the person's soul; the preparation for passing over to eternal life.

The Anointing of the Sick will rarely heal the anguish and damage of the body. The sacrament is intended to heal first any anguish and damage to the soul.

If you or a loved one wishes to receive the Sacrament of Anointing, please contact the parish office at 928.634.2933.