Anointing of the Sick

“To be understood as to understand,
To be loved as to love, For it is in giving that we receive. . .”
~ from The Prayer of Saint Francis

Anointing of the Sick

This sacrament brings Jesus' healing, comfort, and strength to those who are seriously ill or in danger of death through the Priest, who offers God's mercy, strength and healing in Jesus' name.

The Anointing of the Sick can be celebrated individually (at home, in the hospital, in a nursing home) or communally during/after Mass. The sacrament of Reconciliation can precede it. The Priest places his hands on the person's head as a sign of Christ's presence and healing. He anoints the person's forehead and hands with blessed oil. He prays that Jesus will bring healing, peace and strength to the sick person.

The body and blood of Christ are our greatest signs of Christ's dying and rising. After the anointing, a person who is in danger of death may receive the Eucharist as viaticum, "food for the journey" to eternal life with God.

We are happy to bring this sacrament of healing to any who are seriously ill or in emergency. Our priest celebrates the Sacrament of Anointing here at Holy Cross every second Wednesday of the month after the 8:30am Mass.

Anointing is also available at all hours if there is an emergency.  Please contact the Parish Office at 503.289.2834.