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Anointing of the Sick
In the Church's Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, through the ministry of the priest, it is Jesus who touches the sick to heal them from sin – and sometimes even from physical ailment. His cures were signs of the arrival of the Kingdom of God. The core message of his healing tells us of his plan to conquer sin and death by his dying and rising.
The Rite of Anointing tells us there is no need to wait until a person is at the point of death to receive the Sacrament. A careful judgment about the serious nature of the illness is sufficient.
When the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is given, the hoped-for effect is that, if it be God's will, the person be physically healed of illness. But even if there is no physical healing, the primary effect of the Sacrament is a spiritual healing by which the sick person receives the Holy Spirit's gift of peace and courage to deal with the difficulties that accompany serious illness or the frailty of old age.
FAQs
- Is this what used to be call “Extreme Unction”?
Yes. The name of the sacrament was changed to reflect its true nature. In times past, the priest was called to anoint a person as close to the time of death as possible. New thinking has expanded the meaning to offer the grace of this sacrament anyone who is in need of physical or mental healing. This sacrament may be received as often as necessary.
- Do I have to be close to death to receive this sacrament?
No. Anyone who has a serious illness or injury or is preparing for serious surgery may request the sacrament.
- How do I arrange to be anointed?
You may contact the parish office at any time of day or night by calling 348-3717. If the office is closed, you will receive instructions how to leave a message for the priest. The priest will respond shortly to your call.
For more information, please contact:
St. Francis Xavier
Address: 101 North Ferguson, Henryville, Indiana 47126
Phone: 812-294-4682
Email: michaelsecretary@mw.twcbc.com