In the Letter of St. James it is written, "Is there anyone sick among you? He should call for the priests of the church and they should pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord, and the prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise him up. If he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven".(vs. 14-15).
If you wish this Sacrament when facing serious or grave illness, major surgery or treatment, contact a priest by calling the parish office to arrange a time. This Sacrament stands on its own as a comfort and source of grace for the sick. It is celebrated communally twice a year to provide the prayerful support of our parishioners.
When the Anointing is celebrated with the Sacraments of Confession and Communion, it is considered the "Last Rites" of the Church. Because of the shortage of priests, we strongly advise families not to wait until a person is unable to participate in these Sacramental Rites. If you or a loved one is entering a hospital, nursing care or hospice, please ask the nursing staff to contact a priest (either in the institution or a nearby parish). HIPPA regulations prevent outsiders (including clergy) from obtaining information on patients or residents.