Anointing of the Sick
The Sacrament of Anointing of
the Sick is a special opportunity for the Lord's healing
power to touch those who are experiencing an illness or the
aging process. Any person afflicted with an illness or aware
of the limitations inherent in aging is eligible for the
sacrament. This includes the elderly, those anticipating
major surgery, post-surgical patients, those suffering with
long-term disability, heart and stroke patients, as well as
those experiencing emotional or physical stress.
"The Apostolic Constitution Sacram
unctionem infirmorum, following upon the Second Vatican Council,
established that henceforth, in the Roman Rite, the following be
observed:
"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.'"
~ from
Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 1513.
Anytime a person is facing a
serious illness, surgery or hospitalization, it is proper to receive
the Sacrament of the Sick. Please contact a priest.
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