Anointing of the Sick (formerly known as Extreme Unction or the Last Rites) is administered to bring spiritual assistance in a time of health needs.
The Anointing of the Sick is a sacramental rite of healing. A person is anointed to bring spiritual and even physical strength during an emotional, physical, or psychological illness. In the sacrament, we pray that the sick be healed in body, in soul and in spirit. God alone knows what kind of healing the sick need most: that a wound be healed; that a fear turn to confidence; that loneliness be embraced by the support of a praying community; that confusion in the face of all the whys—why me, why suffering, why now—turn to insight. The Sacrament of Anointing does not remove the mystery of human suffering. Yet its celebration gives us a window into the mystery of our loving God.
If you, or a family member, would like to receive this Sacrament, please call the parish office at (606) 436.2533. Do not hesitate to call the office and request this Sacrament of healing. If the person is able, we will confer the Sacrament in the presence of the faith community at Sunday Mass. If not convenient, the Sacrament will be conferred privately with the family.
Formerly, the Sacrament was given near the time of death. Now the sacrament is seen as a joint ministry to the sick and to the dying. People can receive anointing many times and this healing Sacrament can be a wonderful companion as someone faces serious or chronic illness. The sacrament is administered to those who have a serious illness or will undergo a medical procedure or surgery and especially near the time of death. It is a sacrament of healing and a prayer for physical and spiritual health. If you have a Sacramental emergency, call (606) 233-3012 at any time.