The Anointing of the Sick is a Sacrament of the Church in which the priest prays, lays hands, and anoints the sick person with blessed oil. Through the sacrament of anointing, Christ strengthens the faithful who are afflicted by illness, providing them with the strongest means of support. The celebration of this Sacrament is an opportunity for the deepening of the faith of the community who are able to witness the faith and devotion of those being anointed.
The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick can be administered to anyone struggling with an illness. ‘Anointing of the Sick consists essentially of the priest anointing the forehead and hands of the sick person (in the Roman Rite). The liturgical prayer by the priest combines with the act of anointing as he asks God for the special grace of this Sacrament to flow to the ones receiving it.’ (Ref CCC 1531)
The healing that occurs in this Sacrament is not necessarily physical healing. While we believe that physical healing can occur through the great power of God, the grace infused through this special Sacrament is spiritual in nature and a reminder that God is eternally present with us during our human suffering, and the end of life.
Now, should you or anyone in your family who is
seriously ill want to receive this Sacrament of healing, or
should there be an emergency situation, please feel free to
call me directly for assistance. And if you find it hard to
get me on my mobile, do contact Fiona Casey, the Parish
Secretary and she will do the needful for you without
delay.
