Overview

Throughout all of history, the Church has been charged with ministering to the sick through care and prayer of intercesssion. The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick was instituted by Christ and attested to by St. James: "Is anyone among you sick? Let him call in the presbyters (priests) of the Church and let them pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord." (James 5:14-15)

The celebration of this sacrament consists essentially in an anointing with the Oil of the Infirm (Oil of the Sick) on the hands and forehead of the sick person, accompanied by the prayer of the priest who asks for the special grace of this sacrament. It gives comfort, peace, courage, and even the forgiveness of sins if the sick person is not able to make a confession.

Anyone of advanced age, or of serious illness of mind, body or spirit, may receive this sacrament.

Church Teaching

Go HERE to read what the Church teaches about the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, as expressed in the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

When Celebrated

The Anointing of the Sick is celebrated:

• On the First Friday of each month, after the 8:30 a.m. Weekday Mass
• Upon request and availability of a priest
• At home, the hospital, or the nursing home, if necessary, by arranging with a priest

Sacramental Preparation

There is no formal sacramental preparation required to receive the Anointing of the Sick. The priest can briefly explain the celebration and effects of the sacrament if the recipient is not familiar with it.