The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick
If you would like to receive the Anointing of the Sick, please contact the Parish Office at 513.697.3100.
The Anointing of the Sick is a sacrament of the Church in which the priest prays for, lays hands on and anoints the sick person with blessed oil. It may be preceded by the Sacrament of Reconciliation and followed by Eucharist.
If you are experiencing an illness, injury, impending surgery or weakness due to age, there is a powerful help available for you here in our Church. The benefit of this sacrament allows you to experience the peace that God alone can give. It is natural and wise to turn to God, our Father, and to Jesus, our Savior, with your needs -- physical, emotional and spiritual.
The sacrament may be repeated if the recipient suffers for a different illness or injury or if the same illness or condition becomes more serious. Elderly people may be anointed if they have become weakened even though no serious illness is present.
Common Questions
Is this sacrament the same thing as Extreme Unction or Last Rites?
Yes and no. The Anointing of the Sick has also gone by the name Extreme Unction which, as a name, emphasizes the anointing (unction) and the notion that this sacrament is for those who are dying. However, there are many other circumstances of illness and disease in which this sacrament should be received. It should not be neglected as only for the moments immediately prior to death. The Last Rites involve the administration of Anointing of the Sick as well as Confession (if possible), Viaticum (final Holy Communion) and the prayers of commendation.
Why is it necessary for a priest (or bishop) to administer this sacrament?
Because forgiveness of sins is among the effects of the Anointing of the Sick it is necessary that a priest (or bishop) administer the sacrament. Deacons and laity can pray for the sick and dying, but not to the same effect as this sacrament.
How does one get a priest to offer this sacrament?
If you would like to receive the Anointing of the Sick, please contact the Parish Office at 513.697.3100.
