Anointing of the Sick

The gospels attest to the fact that Jesus spent most of his time healing the sick. His healing not only addressed people's physical ailments but also their spiritual and psychological longings.

Moreover, after Jesus called his disciples, he empowered them to continue his healing ministry. 
After Jesus death and resurrection, the church continued to carry out the mission of praying over the sick and annointing them with oil. Whenever the Christian community celebrates the "Anointing of the Sick", we not only rememb the healing activity of Jesus but sacramentally celebrate how Christ continues to heal and restore us today. 

Our parish celebrates this sacrament as a community two or three times a year in the context of the mass. On those occasions, anyone who is facing illness, diffciulties or trials of any sort is encouraged to benefit from the strength and consolation this sacrament provides.

We are also willing to administer this sacrament privately to anyone who desires to receive the peace that it affords (e.g., before a surgery). This can take immediately following one of our regular liturgies or a special time can be arranged. If one so desires, the priests of our community are also happy to administer this sacrament at one's home or in the hospital. 

In the Anointing of the Sick, a special oil is used, which was blessed by the archbishop at the Chrism Mass during Holy Week. During the rite, the priest places the oils on the forehead and on the hands of the person receiving the sacrament. This sacrament may be received often. 

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