The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is a Catholic ritual that involves a priest anointing a person with blessed oil while praying for them. It is also known as Extreme Unction or Last Rites.
The sacrament is intended for anyone who is seriously ill, injured, or elderly, or who is facing surgery. It is not limited to those who are dying. The sacrament is meant to provide comfort, strength, and forgiveness, and to unite the suffering of the recipient with Christ’s Passion. The sacrament can also help the recipient and their loved ones understand suffering differently.
The sacrament is performed with the oil of the sick, which symbolizes God’s presence and is believed to provide strength and hope. The sacrament may be preceded by the Sacrament of Reconciliation and followed by Eucharist.
The sacrament is not intended for those who are experiencing a bad day or minor illness. The Eucharist and Confession are better suited for those seeking healing in a general or spiritual way. A priest can help determine if someone is in need of the sacrament.
Please contact one of the priests to receive the Anointing of the Sick. The
elderly may be anointed if they have become notably weakened
even though no serious illness is present. Anyone preparing for
surgery due to serious illness should receive this sacrament.