Anointing of the Sick

Anointing of the Sick is the sacrament that is received by those who are ill or suffering. By the sacred anointing and the prayer of the priest, the whole Church commends those who are sick to Christ. The sick person receives the Holy Spirit’s gifts of strength, faith, peace and courage, and his or her suffering is united with the suffering of Christ, for the building up of the Church (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1520-23).
 
While it is possible that the sacrament could bring physical healing, Anointing of the Sick is primarily about the healing of hope and of the spirit. Above all, the sacrament allows the person who is ill to unite more closely to Christ's Passion. This gives suffering a new meaning: a participation in the saving work of Jesus. This is a powerful witness that is for the good of the whole Church (Catechism 1521-22).

The sacrament should not be limited to those near death and may be received more than once by a person who is ill, injured, suffering, or elderly. Parishioners may request the sacrament of Anointing of the Sick for themselves or a loved one by calling the parish office at (540) 659-1102 at any time. In cases of hospital emergencies, speak to the chaplain at the hospital and they will contact the priest.