Anointing of the Sick

EMERGENCY SACRAMENT AFTER HOURS
 CALL 608-453-5763

Anointing of the sick is the sacrament in which the Church prays for and anoints with sacred oil those who are gravely ill, asking for healing and strength. This sacrament gives the grace of strengthening, peace, and courage to overcome the difficulties that go with their condition and strengthens against fear. The primary goal of anointing of the sick is to comfort the soul, though it can result in physical healing. If the person is too sick to confess their sins through reconciliation, the anointing also forgives their sins. A person may receive this sacrament multiple times.

Anointing is available to anyone in need of spiritual grace at the onset of illness, prior to surgery, with increasing frailty, or as a chronic or terminal illness advances significantly. You may request private anointing in the hospital, at home with family, or in church by appointment. Try to arrange for this sacrament as early as possible, rather than waiting until death is near. It can be especially meaningful for families to celebrate and pray together with their loved one. To arrange an anointing, contact the Parish Office or call the Emergency Sacrament After Hours number listed above.