Anointing of the Sick

Holy oil The sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is given to those who are seriously ill by anointing them on the forehead and hands with duly blessed oil—pressed from olives or from other plants—saying, only once: "Through this holy anointing may the Lord in his love and mercy help you with the grace of the Holy Spirit. May the Lord who frees you from sin save you and raise you up." (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1513)

 Anointing of the Sick includes (CCC 1519):

  • The laying on of hands by the priest
  • Prayer over the person “in the faith of the Church”
  • Anointing with oil blessed by the bishop (Infirmorum)

This Sacrament is primarily intended for any who suffer from serious or chronic physical or emotional illness or who struggle with the infirmities of age.  One need not be in danger of death, nor does the Church anoint one who has already died. (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1521)

Opportunities for Anointing at St James

We provide Anointing of the Sick at  9am Mass on the first Saturday of each month.  One may receive the Sacrament of Anointing at any time by contacting the parish office (link).

If you are scheduled to go to the hospital for surgery or extended care and wish to receive the Sacrament of Anointing, please contact the Parish Office BEFORE you go.  

 

Scriptural Reference for the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick:

"Is any among you sick?
Let him call for the presbyters 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