History of the Sacrament:

The Sacrament of the Sick came out of the commonly used ritual of oil in the Old Testament. Oil was used for treating wounds, healing the sick and preparing the dead for burial. The use of oil speaks of strength and health, of light and beauty, of consecration and God's spirit. There are two references in the New Testament to healing and anointing of the sick. In the Gospel of Mark 6:13, it states, “They expelled many demons, anointed the sick with oil and worked many cures.” The Letter of James also speaks of calling the presbyters of the church, praying over the sick and anointing them with oil.¹⁵ In the early Church the care of the whole person was of central concern, both physical and spiritual healing was sought.

Definition of the Anointing of the Sick:

Procedure for Anointing of the Sick:

When a person is ill:

1. Call the parish office; access the emergency number 24 hours a day by calling the church office.

2. The call is referred to a priest, deacon or pastoral minister.

3. Arrangements can be made to come to the nursing home, hospital or your home to anoint your loved one.

4. Only the priest can administer the Sacrament of the Sick. Anyone on the pastoral staff is happy to come and pray with you.

5. We record the date of the anointing in our parish record.

When a family member is dying:

1. Call the parish number or the emergency number if after hours.

2. If the family member has been anointed, a member of the pastoral staff will come and pray with the family. Prayers for the Dying can be used.

3. If the family member needs to be anointed, then a priest will be contacted and arrangement will be made.

4. Many hospitals have chaplains on site and they are also available if the parish cannot be contacted.

¹⁵ CCC. #1285.

¹⁶ James 5:13-16