Unfortunately, many people still see the Anointing of the Sick as associated with preparation for the
end of earthly life and still use the term ‘the Last Rites’.
The Second Vatican Council made it very clear that Anointing of the Sick is about healing and
wholeness.
Anointing is available to anyone who wants healing in mind, body or spirit. It can only be
administered by a bishop or priest because it includes the forgiveness of sin.
The sacrament is given with the oil of the sick that has been consecrated by the bishop at the Chrism
Mass each year. However if necessary a priest can bless oil for the anointing of the sick.
The person being anointed is prayed for silently first of all as the priest lays his hands on their hear.
The oil is then used to make the sign of the cross on the persons forehead and then the palms of
both hands. (A priest being anointed is anointed on the back of his hands because he was anointed
on the palms of his hands at ordination with the oil of Chrism.)
Anointing can take place individually or a at a mass of healing.
If you want to receive the Anointing of the Sick please arrange this through the Hub or by speaking
to the priest after mass. If you are going into hospital for surgery you are invited to come for
confession and anointing before going in.
If someone is in danger of death please contact Fr Giorgio directly so that the person can receive
Holy Communion and be anointed.
