Sacrament of the Sick/Anointing

Christ’s compassion toward the sick and his many healings of every kind of infirmity are a resplendent sign that “God has visited his people” and that the Kingdom of God is close at hand. Jesus has the power not only to heal, but also to forgive sins; he has come to heal the whole man, soul and body; he is the physician the sick have need of. His compassion toward all who suffer goes so far that he identifies himself with them: “I was sick and you visited me.” His preferential love for the sick has not ceased through the centuries to draw the very special attention of Christians toward all those who suffer in body and soul. It is the source of tireless efforts to comfort them” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1503).

The Sacrament of the Sick is not reserved solely for those who are dying. The sacrament gives the grace of the Holy Spirit to those who are sick. It strengthens their loved ones, and it also brings a measure of comfort to caregivers.

A sick person may be anointed before surgery whenever a serious illness is the reason for the surgery. Elderly people may be anointed if they have become notably weakened even though no serious illness is present. We encourage families to call the parish office when a loved one is hospitalized or is sick at home so proper pastoral visits and an anointing, if warranted, may be offered. 

Additionally, a public Sacrament of the Sick anointing service is held each spring at Holy Family Church.