Anointing of the Sick

This Sacrament affirms God’s loving presence in the midst of our sufferings, fragility, ageing or preparing for surgery.  God accompanies us always.

Fr Anthony Kain has written a fine summary of the meaning of the Sacrament of the Anointing.

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The full rite of anointing may be found here. The US Catholic bishops offer some background to the Sacrament and its meaning here.

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The heart of the rite involves olive oil blessed by the bishop in Holy Week, as the priest prays:

(Anointing the forehead with a cross): Through this  +  holy anointing may the Lord in his love and mercy help you by the grace of the Holy Spirit. R. Amen

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(Anointing each palm of the hands with a cross): May the Lord who frees you from sin + save you and raise you up. R. Amen

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The Sacrament of Anointing is celebrated regularly throughout the year, especially in the Easter Season, and anytime on request.