The Sacraments of Healing

Anointing of the Sick

The Church commends the ill to the suffering and glorified Lord, that he may raise them up and save them.

Artwork placeholder — a priest anointing the forehead of someone who is ill, with a gentle, hope-filled tone

"By the sacred anointing of the sick and the prayer of the priests the whole Church commends those who are ill to the suffering and glorified Lord, that he may raise them up and save them. And indeed she exhorts them to contribute to the good of the People of God by freely uniting themselves to the Passion and death of Christ."

Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1499

In illness, surgery, the frailty of age, or the approach of death, the Church draws close with the healing grace of Christ. There is no need to wait until the last moment — this sacrament is a source of strength, peace, and courage.

When to Ask for the Sacrament

Before surgery: Please arrange to receive the Anointing of the Sick beforehand.

In an emergency: Let your family know that, should you be hospitalized, they are to ask the hospital chaplain to call for a parish priest. Do not hesitate to call — day or night.

The sacrament may be received again each time a person falls seriously ill, or before a serious operation, or as one grows more frail with age.

In Brief (CCC 1526–1532)

  • 1526 — Scripture itself commends it: "Is any among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord" (James 5:14–15).
  • 1527 — It confers a special grace upon the Christian experiencing the difficulties of grave illness or old age.
  • 1528 — The fitting time to receive it is as soon as one begins to be in danger of death from sickness or old age.
  • 1529 — It may be received each time a Christian falls seriously ill, and again if the illness worsens.
  • 1530 — Only priests (bishops and presbyters) may give this sacrament.
  • 1531 — It is celebrated by anointing the forehead and hands with blessed oil, accompanied by the prayer of the Church.
  • 1532 — Its graces include:
    • the uniting of the sick person to the Passion of Christ;
    • strength, peace, and courage to endure suffering;
    • the forgiveness of sins, if it could not be obtained through Penance;
    • the restoration of health, if it is conducive to salvation;
    • the preparation for passing over to eternal life.

Homebound & Hospital Ministry

If you or someone you know needs Communion, Confession, or the Anointing of the Sick at home or in a care facility, please reach out to your parish.

St. Francis Xavier

425 Price Street, Friday Harbor WA 98250 · San Juan Islands

  • Phone(360) 293-2101