Anointing
Sacrament Of the Sick is the Church’s prayer of blessing and healing for those in need or physical, emotional or spiritual healing. While in the past this sacrament was thought of as the Last Rites or Extreme Unction, since Vatican II the Church has considered the act of anointing of the sick as a reflection (along with the Sacrament of Reconciliation) as a sacrament of healing, not farewell.
Because the Rite of the Sacrament of the Sick may include an act of confession of sins and always includes absolution for sins committed during ones life, this sacrament is administered by a priest.
Viaticum and the Last Rites
At other times, espcially when death appears to be near, a priest, deacon or other pastoral minister may pray with the person (and often family members) the Church’s prayers of commendation to the Lord’s care. These “Last Rites” may include Viaticum (Holy Commmunion) given as spiritual strength for the journey to God.
Please do not hesitate to contact the parish office if you or a family member would like to receive the Sacrament of the Sick or Viaticum and the “Last Rites” when death is approaching.
Call 936-4689 during business hours or our after hours emergency line 607-481-1113.