Anointing of the Sick
“A particular gift of the Holy Spirit. The first grace of this sacrament is one of strengthening, peace and courage to overcome the difficulties that go with the condition of serious illness or the frailty of old age. This grace is a gift of the Holy Spirit, who renews trust and faith in God and strengthens against the temptations of the evil one, the temptation to discouragement and anguish in the face of death. This assistance from the Lord by the power of his Spirit is meant to lead the sick person to healing of the soul, but also of the body if such is God’s will. Furthermore, “if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven” (CCC No. 1520).
The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick taps into the Holy Spirit’s continued work of healing in the world today. This Sacrament is not meant simply for the moment before death, but, for any serious illness or when the frailty of life makes one particularly susceptible to illness, e.g. old age. In James 5:15 the word “save” can also be translated as “save, heal, preserve, and rescue.” The point: Salvation in Jesus Christ is about saving, healing, and restoring the entire person (body and soul). Thus, forgiveness of sins is also involved in this Sacrament, not to replace Confession but to highlight the wholeness of salvation and healing brought through Jesus’ life, death, resurrection and pouring of the Holy Spirit.
“Is anyone among you sick? He should summon the presbyters of the church, and they should pray over him and anoint [him] with oil in the name of the Lord, and the prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise him up. If he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven” (James 5:14-15).
Receive the Sacrament
The priests of St. Francis de Sales desire to make the Anointing of the Sick available to you and your loved ones. Please let the parish know if you or your loved ones are hospitalized or seriously ill, and the priests will do all in their power to offer the sacrament. Call: 1 (330) 644-2225.