Sacrament of the Sick

“Is there anyone sick among you? Let them send for the priests of the Church.” “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 the Church exhorts them to contribute to the good of the People of God by freely uniting themselves to the Passion and death of Christ.”

(Document from Lumen Gentium – Vatican II)

The sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is celebrated communally four times a year at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Community. It may be repeated as is necessary. This is especially true when an illness becomes more serious. The Church offers this sacrament regularly for those who may be undergoing surgery by calling the parish office and making an appointment to receive the sacrament before one enters the hospital.

In addition, Viaticum: the true Last Sacrament of the Christian is always available. Anointing of the Sick for those in danger of death is appropriate, but the most important sacrament is always the reception of the Holy Eucharist. The Eucharist is truly the food for the last journey (that is why it is called Viaticum), and prepares us for our heavenly homeland…the final journey in our earthly pilgrimage. Please call the office if you wish to receive this sacrament, which can usually be done after one of the daily, or Sunday Masses.