Sacrament of the Sick

While the older parishioners may think of this as "Last Rites", it is that and so much more.  This Sacrament not only frees us from sin, but it also offers us healing and strength for mind, body and soul.  As such, a healthy understanding of this Sacrament is that it is not simply a "get out of jail free" card for a punishment we dread, but rather a loving forgiveness of our sins and grace for healing and strength.  Those who are ill or in pain, in need of surgery or medical treatment, or suffering with emotional, mental or spiritual illness benefit from the Sacrament.  It is not necessary or advisable to delay until the person is in danger of death.  We celebrate the sacrament communally after the 8:30 AM Mass on the second Friday of each month.  You may also approach the priest at any time and request the Sacrament before going for testing or treatments.  For those in immediate danger of death who have not been anointed recently, we will always provide this service to the best of our abilities but, given the priest shortage, it would be best to celebrate the Sacrament at the beginning of a serious illness or when the parishioner first enters hospice or comfort care.

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