Anointing of the Sick

"Through this Holy Anointing, may the Lord strengthen you with the grace of the Holy Spirit, may the Lord free you from sin and raise you up."

A sacrament is an outward sign of God's presence and action in our lives.  The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is the sign through which the Church prays for God's healing presence and action in the life of a person who is seriously ill or injured.

This sacrament is not primarily a sacrament to be administered at the time of death, but rather at the onset of serious illness or injury, when the prayers for mental, physical, emotional and spiritual healing and strength can be most effective.  A cancer diagnosis, impending surgery, the onset of advanced age and its challenges, and a serious accident are all occasions where celebrating the Sacrament of Anointing may be appropriate.

Anointing of the Sick may take place at church, at home, in a hospital or other health care facility, or another suitable place.  It is best celebrated when the sick person is conscious and able to participate, and in the presence of family and friends.

To arrange to come to church or arrange a home or hospital visit from a priest, please call the parish office at 516-731-4220

For an excellent brief article on Anointing of the Sick, go to:

 http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/CU/ac0196.asp