The Anointing of the Sick is a sacrament administered by the priest in order to bring spiritual and even physical strength during an illness, especially to those near death. It is best not to wait until someone is near death, but to call as soon as they are seriously ill. The Sacrament can also be received before a surgery or medical procedure, or for those with serious mental illness.

Would you or your loved one like to receive the Sacrament of Anointing? Priests are eager to celebrate this Sacrament with those in need. Contact your local parish to have a priest administer this Sacrament to you or a loved one.

“Heal the sick!” The Church has received this charge from the Lord and strives to carry it out by taking care of the sick as well as by accompanying them with her prayer of intercession. She believes in the life-giving presence of Christ, the physician of souls and bodies. This presence is particularly active through the sacraments and in an altogether special way through the Eucharist, the bread that gives eternal life and that St. Paul suggests is connected with bodily health. (Catechism 1509)