Anointing of the Sick
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“Jesus' care and concern for the sick permeates the Gospels. Though primarily concerned with spiritual sickness, He was not indifferent to bodily afflictions and seemed often to point to the relationship between the two. To be faithful to Him, the Church must care for those who are sick in body as well as spirit.” (National Catechetical Directory, 127)
Anointing of the Sick has been restored to fuller use since Vatican II. It is one of the sacraments of healing for those who face serious illness of any kind: physical, mental, psychological, etc. It may be celebrated by anyone who anticipates major surgery or who has reached an advanced age. Those who receive this sacrament are granted spiritual healing and, on occasion, an actual healing of the condition for which they request healing. During the year, a communal celebration is held for those in need of this sacrament. At other times of need, especially for those who are hospitalized for a serious condition, one should contact the pastor to arrange a time to receive this sacrament. Viaticum, also known as “Last Rites”, is the final reception of Eucharist before dying and means “food for the journey”. If you know of a Catholic who is dying and would like to receive Viaticum, contact the pastor. |
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