Anointing of the Sick

Anointing of the Sick

“Is any among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith will save the sick man, and the Lord will raise him up; and if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.” (James 5:14–15)

Emergency Anointing

For near-death anointing, please call the parish answering service:

423-586-9174 Ext. 3

English / Español

About the Anointing of the Sick

The Anointing of the Sick is the sacrament through which Christ strengthens those who suffer from serious illness, the frailty of old age, or significant physical decline. Through the prayer of the Church and the anointing with holy oil, the Lord brings spiritual strength, peace, and courage to those facing the trials of illness.

This sacrament is not only for those at the moment of death. It is intended for anyone whose health is seriously impaired by sickness, advanced age, or major medical procedures. The Church encourages the faithful to receive this sacrament whenever serious illness arises so that they may receive the grace Christ offers in times of suffering.

Through the ministry of the priest, Christ touches the sick person with His healing mercy. The sacrament strengthens the soul, unites the sick person more closely to Christ’s suffering, forgives sins if necessary, and helps the faithful endure illness with faith and hope.

What to Expect During the Anointing of the Sick

If you have never seen the Anointing of the Sick before, the video below offers a brief explanation of the sacrament and the grace it brings to those who suffer from serious illness.

Who Should Receive This Sacrament?

Those Who Are Seriously Ill
Catholics suffering from a serious illness or condition may receive the Anointing of the Sick in order to receive grace, strength, and peace.
Those Preparing for Major Surgery
Those preparing for major surgery may receive the sacrament, especially when the surgery is connected to a serious illness or grave physical condition.
Those Experiencing Frailty Due to Age
Elderly Catholics whose strength has become more fragile due to age may receive this sacrament even if no specific illness has yet been diagnosed.
Those Whose Condition Worsens
The sacrament may be received again if a person’s condition becomes more serious or if a new serious illness arises.

Last Rites and Viaticum

When a Catholic is approaching the end of life, the Church provides special care often referred to as Last Rites.

Last Rites ordinarily include Confession, Anointing of the Sick, and Viaticum, the final reception of the Holy Eucharist.

Viaticum means “food for the journey” and is the Eucharist given to those preparing to pass from this life to the Father. Through these rites, the Church entrusts the dying person to the mercy of Christ and strengthens them for their final journey.

Request the Anointing of the Sick

If you or a loved one is seriously ill, please contact the parish office to arrange for the sacrament. A priest can visit homes, hospitals, or care facilities to administer the Anointing of the Sick.

Please do not wait until the final moments of life to request this sacrament. The Church encourages the faithful to call sooner so that the sick may receive its grace in a timely way.

If someone is in danger of death, please call immediately rather than sending an email.

Common Questions About Anointing of the Sick

Is this sacrament only for those who are dying?
No. The Anointing of the Sick is for Catholics facing serious illness, major surgery, or the frailty of old age. It should not be delayed until the final moments of life.
Can this sacrament be received more than once?
Yes. It may be received again if a person’s condition worsens or if a new serious illness arises.
What grace does this sacrament give?
The sacrament gives strength, peace, and courage, unites the sick more closely to Christ’s suffering, and forgives sins if necessary.
What are Last Rites?
Last Rites ordinarily include Confession, Anointing of the Sick, and Viaticum, the final reception of Holy Communion.
What is Viaticum?
Viaticum means “food for the journey.” It is the Eucharist given to a Catholic who is nearing death.
Should I wait until the situation becomes critical?
No. The Church encourages the faithful to request the sacrament when serious illness begins or when health significantly declines.
Can the sacrament be given at home or in the hospital?
Yes. A priest may administer the sacrament at home, in the hospital, or in a care facility.
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