Anointing of the Sick
The sacrament of healing and comfort for those facing serious illness or the frailty of old age. Through this sacrament, we receive God's grace, strength, and preparation for eternal life.
Christ's Healing Touch in Times of Illness
The Anointing of the Sick is a sacrament of healing, comfort, and strength for those facing serious illness, surgery, or the frailty of old age. It continues Christ's healing ministry in the Church, bringing God's grace and peace to those who suffer.
This sacrament is not only for those at the point of death, but for anyone experiencing serious illness or preparing for major surgery. It can be received multiple times during different illnesses, bringing God's healing grace and spiritual comfort.
At St Saviour's, we are available 24/7 to bring this sacrament to those in need. We provide compassionate pastoral care to both the sick and their families, offering hope and dignity in God's loving presence.
Key Aspects
Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord
James 5:14-15
The Sacred Effects of Anointing
Through Anointing, God brings healing grace, comfort, and strength to face illness with faith and hope.
Spiritual Comfort
AnointingThe sacrament confers a special grace of strengthening, peace, and courage to endure in a Christian manner the sufferings of illness or old age.
It brings consolation to the soul, helping the sick person to trust in God's loving care even amid pain and uncertainty.
Forgiveness of Sins
AnointingIf the sick person is unable to receive the sacrament of Penance, the Anointing of the Sick grants the forgiveness of sins.
This mercy ensures that no one in grave illness is deprived of God's reconciling grace, even when confession is not possible.
Grace for Healing
AnointingThe sacrament offers the restoration of health, if it is conducive to the salvation of the soul.
This healing grace works according to God's will, bringing whatever physical or spiritual restoration best serves the person's journey towards him.
Union with Christ
AnointingThrough the Anointing of the Sick, the suffering person is united with the passion of Christ, for their own good and that of the whole Church.
In this way, the sufferings of the faithful gain meaning and purpose, joined to Christ's own redemptive sacrifice.
Grace for the Whole Church
AnointingBy freely uniting themselves to the passion and death of Christ, the sick contribute to the good of the People of God. The whole Church intercedes for the suffering through the communion of saints.
In this way, the sick person not only receives grace but also sanctifies the Church, for as one member suffers, the whole Body shares in that offering to God the Father.
Preparation for Eternity
AnointingWhen illness is grave, the sacrament prepares the soul for the passage to eternal life.
It strengthens the Christian for the final journey, surrounding them with the grace and comfort of Christ as they approach the threshold of God's Kingdom.
Requirements for Anointing of the Sick
Who can receive this sacrament and how to request it in times of serious illness or emergency.
Who Can Receive
Those who may receive this sacrament
Any baptised Catholic who is seriously ill
Those preparing for major surgery
Elderly persons weakened by age
Children who have reached the age of reason
Can be received multiple times
When to Request
Appropriate times to request anointing
As soon as serious illness begins
Before major surgery or procedures
During times of great physical weakness
When facing life-threatening conditions
Don't wait until the last moment
How to Request
Steps to receive this sacrament
Call parish office: 020 8852 7411
Available 24/7 for emergencies
Speak with priest after Mass
Hospital chaplain services available
Family may request on behalf of patient
You Are Not Alone in Your Suffering
The Church is here to provide spiritual comfort and healing through this beautiful sacrament. Contact us anytime for pastoral care and the anointing of the sick.
Find us in the heart of Lewisham
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