Anointing of the Sick and Last Rites

The sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick has been restored to fuller use since Vatican II. It is one of the sacraments of healing for people of all ages who face serious health issues of any kind: physical, mental, psychological, emotional, etc. It may be celebrated by anyone who, for example, suffers from a major or prolonged physical or other illness, anticipates major surgery, is hospitalized, or has reached an advanced age. Those who receive this sacrament are granted forgiveness of sins, spiritual healing, and, on occasion, actual healing of their condition.

At times of individual need, please call the pastor to arrange to be anointed.

Eucharist may also be received when one is approaching death. The final reception of the Eucharist before dying is called Viaticum, which means “food for the journey.”

It is not necessary to wait until death is imminent to receive Viaticum, and, in fact, a priest may not be available at that moment in time. If you know of a Catholic approaching death who would like to receive Eucharist, please call the pastor.