Sacraments
Sacramental Preparation /Pastoral Care
"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: 13-14
In the past, the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick was called "extreme unction" or "last rites".
This Sacrament offers a special grace from God. It enables the sick or aged person to experience the healing and strength of Jesus Christ. The Sacrament is administered by a priest using an Oil of Chrism. Oil is a powerful symbol of health healing and strength.
The Sacrament is offered to those of the faithful whose health is seriously impaired by sickness or old age or who may be confined to bed, but are still well enough to ask for a priest and who expect to recover.
The Sacrament may also be celebrated during Mass, at a hospital, nursing home, or in a person’s home. It is a celebration of the church where members of the church offer those who are sick the support of faith and prayer.
For those who are seriously ill, preparing for surgery or are in hospital, please contact the Parish Office to arrange the parish priest to visit.
Holy Communion for the Dying (Viaticum)
Holy Communion for the Dying (Viaticum or Food for the Journey) is offered to those whose death is imminent but are still able to receive Holy Communion. Spiritual support through the sacraments, prayers of commendation, and the presence of loved ones should be considered as ordinary or proprotionate care for all who are dying. The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is not offered to someone so close to death as to be unlikely to recover. Please also see 'Pastoral Care of the Dying'.
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