Anointing of the Sick

ANOINTING OF THE SICK

In Catholic tradition, the Anointing of the Sick and Last Rites are distinct yet closely related spiritual ministries often grouped together in popular culture. The Anointing of the Sick, grounded in the scriptural authority of the Epistle of James (James 5:14-15), is a sacramental rite intended for any Catholic whose health is seriously impaired by sickness, advanced age, or before undergoing major surgery. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1514), its primary purpose is to confer special grace on the Christian experiencing the difficulties inherent in the condition of grave illness or old age, offering spiritual healing, strength, peace, and the forgiveness of sins if the person is unable to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Conversely, Last Rites (often referred to formally as Communion for the Dying or Viaticum, meaning "food for the journey") represents the final reception of the Eucharist administered to a person nearing the end of earthly life. As outlined in canon law and liturgical norms, Last Rites is a comprehensive pastoral care sequence that typically includes Penance (if the person is able), the Anointing of the Sick, and finally Viaticum—holy Communion given as spiritual nourishment for passage into eternal life—with the specialized Apostolic Blessing imparted to grant a plenary indulgence at the hour of death (CCC 1525). Thus, while the Anointing of the Sick can be received multiple times throughout various episodes of serious illness, Last Rites is specifically reserved for those approaching the final moments of transition from this life.

Please call the office to requests anointing of the sick or see the priest after Mass to request it.