This sacrament is administered only by a priest or bishop to a sick person. It is no longer considered the Sacrament of the Dying, “Extreme Unction” which is Latin for “last or end anointing”. The anointing and blessing may help the person who is ill to feel strengthened and more connected with God in both mind and body. It may have a positive effect on the health of the person. Spiritually, those who receive this Sacrament, have their suffering united with the suffering Christ endured during His passion.
Families are encouraged to be present for the anointing and to receive Communion with the patient.
There are several instances of the followers of Jesus travelling the countryside and anointing those who were ill, praying over them in the name of Jesus, and sometimes being able to heal them of their illness. Jesus himself healed Peter’s mother-in-law.
Our Administrator and Eucharistic Ministers make these calls on a regular basis. These calls are made to anyone who cannot celebrate the Eucharist in Church on account of illness, handicap or age. Please notify the Administrator of parishoners who are in the hospital or homebound.