The Catechism of the Catholic Church outlines the effects of the sacrament: The sick person is united to the passion of Christ for one’s own good and that of the whole Church. Strengthening, peace, healing grace and courage are given to endure the sufferings of anxiety, illness or old age.
Sins are forgiven if the sick person was not able to obtain this through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Health may be restored or one is prepared for passing into eternal life.
There are three aspects of celebrating the Anointing of the Sick :
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- First, the Prayer of Faith by which the priest asks for God’s help for the sick
- Second, the Laying On of Hands indicating the person is the recipient of the prayer of faith
- Third, the Anointing with Oil on the forehead and hands signifying healing, strengthening and the presence of Christ.
WHO MAY BE ANOINTED?
Canon 998
The Anointing of the Sick, by which the Church commends the faithful who are dangerously ill to the suffering and glorified Lord in order that he relieve and save them, is conferred by anointing them with oil and pronouncing the words prescribed in the liturgical books.
Canon 1004
§1. – The Anointing of the Sick can be administered to a member of the faithful who, having reached the use of reason, begins to be in danger due to sickness or old age.
§2. This Sacrament can be repeated if the sick person, having recovered, again becomes gravely ill or if the condition becomes more grave during the same illness.
Please call the rectory – 773-763-8228 – to have someone anointed.
If it is after hours, call the regular Parish office number and you will be provided an emergency number to call for anointing.