Anointing of the Sick

Anointing of the Sick Sacrament 

Priests and Bishops are Ministers of the Anointing of the Sick, through the laying on of hands and anointing with blessed oil. The anointing of the sick is administered to bring spiritual and even physical strength during an illness, or near the time of death. This sacrament is offered to those with physical, emotional and/or mental illnesses, chronic conditions, or the infirmities of age as well as those who are about to undergo major surgery. It is not necessary that the illness be terminal and yet the illness should not be trivial. The Sacrament of Reconciliation normally accompanies this sacrament.

“The anointing of the sick conveys several graces and imparts gifts of strengthening in the Holy Spirit against anxiety, discouragement, and temptation, and conveys peace and fortitude (CCC, 1520).”

“The special grace of the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick has as its effects:

• the uniting of the sick person to the passion of Christ, for his own good and that of the whole Church

• the strengthening, peace, and courage to endure in a Christian manner the sufferings of illness or old age

• the forgiveness of sins, if the sick person was not able to obtain it through the sacrament of penance

• the restoration of health, if it is conducive to the salvation of his soul

• the preparation for passing over to eternal life."                                                                                              (CCC, 1532)

To receive this sacrament, please contact your parish office.