Prayer
The priest and those present entrust the sick person to God’s mercy, love and healing purpose.
Christ meets us in weakness
Anointing of the Sick
A sacrament of Christ’s strengthening presence for those who are seriously ill, frail, facing treatment, troubled in mind or spirit, or approaching the end of life.
Please do not wait until the last moment
If you or someone you love is ill, in hospital, preparing for surgery or becoming frail, contact the parish. A priest can visit, pray and offer the sacrament where appropriate.
What happens in the sacrament?
The Church does not abandon people when health fails. Through prayer, the laying on of hands and anointing with holy oil, Christ draws near with grace and peace.
Laying on of hands
A biblical sign of blessing and the invocation of the Holy Spirit’s strengthening presence.
Holy anointing
The forehead and hands are anointed with blessed oil as an outward sign of inward grace.
Is anointing only for the dying?
No. It is for serious illness, frailty, major treatment and suffering in body, mind or spirit. It may be received again if illness worsens or another serious condition arises.
Does anointing guarantee physical healing?
Christians pray confidently for healing but do not treat the sacrament as magic. God may bring bodily healing; always he offers grace, courage, forgiveness, peace and deeper union with Christ’s suffering and risen life.
What if the person is in hospital or unable to respond?
Contact the parish as soon as possible and tell hospital staff that a priest has been requested. A priest can pray with someone who is weak or unconscious; family members are welcome to be present.
What does Scripture say?
“Are any among you sick? They should call for the elders of the church and have them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord.” (James 5.14)
Lord Jesus Christ, physician of souls and bodies, give your servant strength, peace and courage; and hold them in the healing love of your Cross and Resurrection. Amen.
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