Anointing of the Sick

The Anointing of the Sick is for all Catholics as a means to bring both spiritual and physical strength.  These include those who suffer from illnesses, who are scheduled for surgery, treatments for disease, or who experience a sudden medical crisis.

The Anointing of the Sick—inappropriately referred to as “The Last Rites”—should not be delayed without good reason. The sacrament is appropriate for the elderly weakened by advanced age or suffering from chronic or long-term illnesses.  The sacrament may be repeated if the sick person's condition becomes more serious or relapse occurs after recovery. The person afflicted has no need to explain the reason for presenting themselves.

For those who are in the end-of-life stage or Hospice care, family members should contact the parish priest immediately to have their loved one anointed as a priest may not be available on short notice prior to death.