The anointing of the sick is administered to bring spiritual and even physical strength during an illness, especially near the time of death.  It is most likely one of the last sacraments one will receive.  A sacrament is an outward sign established by Jesus Christ to confer inward grace.  In more basic terms, it is a rite tha tis performed to convey God's grace to the recipient, through the power of the Holy Spirit.  Like all sacraments, holy anointing was instituted by Jesus Christ during his earthly ministry.  The Catechism explains, "This sacred anointing of the sick was instituted by Christ our Lord as a true and proper sacrament of the New Testament.  It is alluded to by Mark, but is recommended to the faithful and promulgated by James the Apostle and brother of the Lord."  (CCC1511; Mark 6:13, James 5:14-15).

The anointing of the sick conveys several graces and imparts gifts of strengthening in the Holy Spirit against anxiety, discouragement, and temptation, and conveys peace and fortitude (CCC1520).  These graces flow from the anointing death of Jesus Christ, for "this was to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah, 'He took our infirmities and bore our diseases.'" (Matt. 8:17).

Anointing of the Sick is done after daily Mass once during Advent and again during Lent.  Special arrangements may be made for the homebound and hospitalized by contacting the parish office, at 952-935-1432.