"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)

Prior to the Second Vatican Council, the sacrament known as "Extreme Unction" was reserved for a person who was dying. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the post Vatican II Church reached a deeper understanding. Now called "The Anointing of the Sick," the Church teaches us that this sacrament is not only "for those...who are at the point of death. Hence, as soon as anyone of the faithful begins to be in danger of death from sickness or old age, the fitting time for him to receive this sacrament has certainly already arrived." (CCC 1514)

If you are in danger from a serious illness, preparing for a potentially dangerous surgery, or have a loved one who is dying, please call the parish office at 502-635-5813.