Anointing of the Sick

The anointing of the sick is a sacramental celebration meant to strengthen the soul, mind, and body of those suffering from illness. It is not only for those who are at the point of death, but for all those facing serious illness in their lives. 

“Is anyone among you sick? They should call for the priests of the church, and he will pray over them and anoint the sick with oil in the name of the Lord, and the prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise them up. If they have committed any sins, they will be forgiven."   — Letter of St. James 5:14-15

According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church:
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.

• A sick person may be anointed before surgery whenever a serious illness is the reason for the surgery.
• Elderly people may be anointed if they have become notably weakened even though no serious illness is present.
• The 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.

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If you or someone you love would like to arrange for anointing prior to surgery, please call the church office at 630-323-1248.

If the person in need of anointing is hospitalized, notify the Catholic Chaplain on duty and they will arrange for the sacrament to be administered.