Jesus continues His healing ministry through His Church. In the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, through the ministry of the priest, Jesus touches the sick to bring them spiritual strength and healing.
When Should This Sacrament Be Celebrated?
The Anointing of the Sick is not limited to those near death. It is a sacrament for anyone facing serious illness, chronic conditions, the frailty of old age, or before undergoing major surgery.
The Rite of Anointing assures us that a careful judgment about the serious nature of the illness is sufficient to request the sacrament. If the illness progresses or new conditions arise, it may be received again.
If the death of a loved one is imminent and they require the Last Rites, please call our Emergency Phone Line at 315-246-8950 immediately.
What Does the Sacrament Offer?
The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick provides:
- Spiritual Healing: Peace, courage, and strength to endure illness or infirmity.
- Forgiveness of Sins: If the person is unable to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation, this sacrament also forgives sins.
- Physical Healing: While not guaranteed, physical recovery is prayed for, according to God’s will.
“When the Sacrament is given, the hoped-for effect is that, if it be God’s will, the person be healed of illness. Even if no physical healing occurs, the primary effect is spiritual healing.” — United States Catholic Catechism for Adults
Biblical Foundation
The roots of this sacrament are found in Scripture, particularly in the Letter of James:
“Is anyone among you sick? He should summon the presbyters of the church, and they should pray over him and anoint (him) with oil in the name of the Lord, and the prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise him up.” (James 5:14-15)
How to Request the Sacrament
- If you or a loved one is seriously ill, hospitalized, in a nursing home, or homebound, please call the Parish Office at 315-902-4130 to schedule an anointing.
- For non-urgent visits or homebound ministry, contact us to arrange a visit by a priest or a visitation minister.
Reflections on Suffering and Healing
“What really hurts is not so much suffering as the fear of suffering. If welcomed trustingly and peacefully, suffering makes us grow. It purifies us, teaches us to love unselfishly, and makes us compassionate toward others.” — Fr. Jacques Philippe, Interior Freedom
Let us journey together in faith, trusting in God’s love and mercy as we face the challenges of illness and infirmity.
For more information about this sacrament, visit the USCCB Website.