Anointing of the sick
Christ’s healing presence in times of illness and suffering.
In Anointing of the Sick, Christ the Divine Physician draws near to the seriously ill, elderly, or those facing major surgery. A priest anoints with the Oil of the Sick and prays that the Holy Spirit bring strength, peace, and courage, uniting the sufferer to Jesus’ Passion, forgiving sins when needed, and, if it be God’s will, restoring health or preparing the soul for eternal life. The Church commends the sick to the Lord in faith and charity, especially through this sacrament together with Penance and Viaticum for those near death. As St. John Paul II taught, suffering lived with Christ becomes “a particular power” for the good of the Church (Salvifici Doloris 27), and saints like Camillus de Lellis and Thérèse of Lisieux witness how grace transforms weakness into trust. If you or a loved one are gravely ill, contact a priest promptly to receive this saving help.
At St. Michael’s, the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is offered to those who are seriously ill, facing surgery, weakened by age, or in need of spiritual strength during times of physical or mental suffering. Through this sacrament, the Church entrusts the sick to the compassion and healing mercy of Christ, offering grace, peace, and courage in the midst of illness or frailty.
The Anointing of the Sick is not only for those at the point of death, but for any Catholic whose health is significantly affected by illness, chronic condition, advanced age, or an upcoming serious medical procedure. Through the prayers of the priest and the anointing with blessed oil, the faithful receive spiritual comfort, union with Christ in suffering, and, if God wills, even physical healing. The sacrament also brings forgiveness of sins when the person is unable to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Family members are encouraged to contact the parish as soon as possible when a loved one is in need of this sacrament, rather than waiting until the final moments of life. In addition to emergency situations, the sacrament may also be made available in appropriate pastoral circumstances according to the needs of the faithful.
To request the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick for yourself or a loved one, please contact
Sr. Rose Paul srrosepaul@stmichaelscatholic.com.
St. Michael’s Parish is honored to accompany the sick, the elderly, and their families with prayer, compassion, and the healing presence of Christ through this sacred sacrament.