Anointing of the Sick
# Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick
At **St. George Catholic Church**, we care deeply for those who are ill, elderly, or facing serious medical challenges. The **Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick** is a sign of Christ’s compassion and healing presence for those who suffer in body, mind, or spirit.
This sacrament is not reserved only for the moment of death. It is a sacrament of **healing, strength, and peace**, offered whenever serious illness or the frailty of age is present.
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## What Is the Anointing of the Sick?
The Church teaches:
> *“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.”*
> *(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1499)*
Through the anointing with holy oil and the prayer of the priest, Christ comes to the sick person with His grace. This sacrament offers:
* strength and peace
* comfort in suffering
* forgiveness of sins (when Confession is not possible)
* union with the suffering of Christ
* sometimes, physical healing according to God’s will
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## A Sacrament of Healing and Hope
The Anointing of the Sick reminds us that **illness and suffering do not separate us from God**. Instead, Christ draws near, bringing His presence, compassion, and healing love.
This sacrament can be received:
* when facing a **serious illness**
* before **major surgery**
* when weakened by **advanced age**
* when illness worsens after a previous anointing
It may be received more than once as circumstances change.
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## A Sacred Responsibility
To request the Anointing of the Sick is an act of faith and trust in God.
To **receive this sacrament** means allowing Christ to enter into your suffering and to strengthen you with His grace. It means turning to God not only for physical healing, but also for peace, courage, and hope.
To **walk with those who are sick** means supporting them with prayer, presence, and compassion. Families are encouraged to remain close, to pray together, and to help their loved ones receive the sacraments as a source of comfort and strength.
The Anointing of the Sick reminds us that no one suffers alone and that the Church stands with her members in times of illness and vulnerability.
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## Who May Receive This Sacrament?
The Anointing of the Sick may be received by:
* any baptized Catholic facing a **serious illness**
* those preparing for **major surgery**
* the elderly experiencing **frailty or declining health**
* those whose condition has worsened after a previous anointing
This sacrament should be requested **before** a person is near death whenever possible.
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## How to Request the Anointing of the Sick
To request the Anointing of the Sick:
* Contact the **Parish Office** as soon as possible at 817-831-4404
* For urgent situations or emergencies, call the parish emergency number at 817-831-4404 and press 9
Please do not wait until the last moment. Early reception of the sacrament allows the person to be fully present and to receive its graces more fully.
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## Anointing at the End of Life
When a person is nearing death, the Church offers special pastoral care, including:
* the Sacrament of Reconciliation
* the Anointing of the Sick
* Holy Communion as **Viaticum** (food for the journey)
Together, these sacraments prepare the faithful to meet the Lord with trust and peace.
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## Continuing Care and Prayer
The parish community continues to pray for those who are sick and for their caregivers. Families are encouraged to remain connected to the Church through prayer, visits, and the sacraments whenever possible.
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## Questions or Need Assistance?
If you or a loved one are in need of the Anointing of the Sick, please contact the Parish Office at 817-831-4404. We are here to support you with prayer, presence, and pastoral care.