The Church offers the Anointing of the Sick to Catholics in a variety of circumstances. It is helpful to know that the Sacrament is available, as well as when and how to request a Priest.
Are there people 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.
The prayer of faith will save the sick persons,
and the Lord will raise them up.
If they have committed any sins,
their sins will be forgiven them.
-Ritual of Anointing of the Sick, James 5:14-15
Anointing of the Sick, not to be confused with Last Rites (a term not officially used in the Church), is a Sacrament offered to Catholics who have a serious illness, and are in need of healing. The Ritual, administered by a Priest, includes the laying on of hands, the anointing with the oil, and may also include the other Sacraments of Reconciliation or Communion.
Parishioners who know that their loved one is persistently ill, or anticipate a medical procedure, should request God's grace and mercy in this Sacrament. Those that expect that this Sacrament is only available to those who are actively dying may be mistaken. This Sacrament is normally celebrated in the midst of Family or of Community, rather than a private event (with the exception of a Sacramental Confession).
Parishioners who attend Mass, or make appointments with our office, may visit our Church to receive the Sacrament. For more information on receiving a priest visit for the homebound or for an emergency, please refer to the subsequent tabs.
Homebound visits, often in proximity to the First Friday, or upon the request of the family, usually include Communion, and may also include the Anointing of the Sick, and Reconciliation (if requested). Homebound Parishioners, who are unable to regularly participate in the our Sunday worship should feel welcome to contact us to receive these Sacraments.
A group of volunteers make themselves available to see and minister to homebound Parishioners. Please call the office for more information, or to make a request."It’s very rewarding to be able to pray and administer the Sacraments with family members to loved ones who have gotten to know one of their priests. It’s comforting for the ill to see a familiar face behind the Roman collar. Our priests are here for you. " - Fr James Mott, Pastor emeritus