Anointing of the Sick
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 she exhorts them to contribute to the good of the People of God by freely uniting themselves to the Passion and death of Christ (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1499)
Anointing of the Sick is also known as extreme unction. In years past this sacrament was administered primarily to those who were near death. It is still fitting for the priest to anoint those who are near death, but now we understand that this sacrament should be received by those who have a grave illness or by those who are advanced in age. Please make preparations to receive this sacrament long before the verge of death.
This a sacrament of healing and strengthening since during the trying times of grave illness or near death we can often go through many thoughts and feelings including discouragement, anguish, self-absorption, and despair. During this time the Church wishes to be with the ill person in order to console and strengthen them by the grace of this sacrament.
This sacrament should also be received in along with the sacrament of confession, which is the other sacrament of healing, and with the Eucharist.
If you, or someone you know, is ill please contact the parish office at 320-287-2255, or the parish rectory at 320-355-2454