Anointing the Sick

He summoned the Twelve and began to send them out two by two…They anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them. (Mark 6:7, 13)

The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick gives strength and support and can be administered to anyone struggling with an illness.

The sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is the reminder of the eternal presence of God in our human suffering and offers spiritual healing.


Many people think that Anointing of the Sick is “Last Rites” and is only given when a person is dying. They are not the same thing

This sacrament gives a grace that unites the sick person with Christ, and gives comfort and courage.  If the sick person cannot make a confession, it also offers forgiveness. 

Anointing of the Sick in our Parish

At St. John XXIII, Anointing of the Sick is done as a group on the fourth Saturday/Sunday of the month after Mass.  It is also done individually as needed.

Individual Anointing:

  • Contact the Parish Office to arrange a an anointing.  Do not wait until the last minute for Last Rites or wait until you are very sick before calling.
  • Let the priest know the situation, severity, and location
  • If you or your loved one is in the hospital, they may have a priest who covers the hospital - check with your nurse or patient advocate

When to call:

  • Call if you or a loved one is home ill and cannot get to church with any major illness or impending surgery
  • Call if you or your loved one is relapsing with a chronic disease or illness
  • Call if your elderly loved one is becoming weak or frail or deteriorating
  • Call if there is any risk of impending death