Anointing of the Sick

We use the laying on of hands and anointing with sacred oil as signs of God’s loving, healing presence in our most vulnerable moments. The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick may be received by anyone at any age who is facing a serious illness or surgery or who is impaired by old age.

If possible, the sacrament should be received in the presence of the family at home, in church, or in a hospital room. It can be received multiple times if health conditions improve and then worsen again. We especially encourage families to contact the Parish Office about the sacrament very early on when any family member is in the end-stage of life.

In the case of imminent death, it is important for us to know so the priest can prepare to also give the person Viaticum, which is the Holy Eucharist for those who are about to leave this earthly life and are preparing for the journey to eternal life.