The Sacrament for Anointing of the Sick is for anyone facing serious illness or surgery; failing health; or the need for any physical, mental or emotional healing. You don’t have to be dying to receive this sacrament.  Rather, it is an expression of God’s presence and healing power and care. It can be received more than once.

It is critical to know that the Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that the “last rites” are not the same as the Anointing of the Sick. The “last rites” is simply communion and no more.

CCC 1517: “As the sacrament of the Lord’s Passover the Eucharist should always be the last sacrament of the earthly journey, the “viaticum” for “passing over” to eternal life.” If the dying person has been receiving communion, then he/she has received the “last rites” and a priest is not needed.

Call the parish office and let us know that you or your loved one desires to be anointed. It is important to share important details that will help our priest plan their visit with you. Some details would be the place where you are staying, the seriousness of the illness, or the date of the surgery. Hospitals also provide Holy Communion and anointing if you let admittance know that you want to be visited by a Catholic chaplain on call.

For more information or to schedule a visit, contact the Parish Office at any time at 330-847-8677.