First Friday 10.00am Masses are usually reserved for Anointing of the sick. See the newsletter for location.
What is Anointing of the Sick?
Anointing of the Sick is that sacrament by which sick persons, through anointing with oil and the prayer of the priest, receive grace for the salvation of their souls and possible bodily healing.
Why is Anointing of the Sick important?
Anointing is important because it strengthens our souls and bodies at the approach of death, either to heal us or to help us to die in a state of grace. This is a crucial help because the condition of our souls at death completes our earthly pilgrimage and fixes our state for eternity.
How did Christ establish Anointing?
Scripture describes Jesus as the physician of our souls and bodies. He also promised that his disciples would lay hands on the sick, who would recover (Mark 16:17-18). The Letter of James (James 5:14-15) bears witness to the fact that the first priests of the Church anointed the sick.
What are the effects of Anointing?
The effects of Anointing are the strengthening of the sick person, the remission of sins (even when the person is incapable of confessing their sins) and possibly also bodily healing.
When is Anointing given?
Anointing is given when a person is seriously ill or in danger of death. However, it should not be delayed until the point of death, and if the person subsequently recovers and relapses later, he or she can receive the sacrament again.
This article is originally from ‘CREDO: The Catholic Faith explained’ by CTS.
