Anointing of the Sick

In the Gospel we see how Jesus was moved by the suffering and sorrow of the people. He himself also knew suffering and fear. Therefore, the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is the sacrament of Jesus' presence in the suffering, sorrow and anguish of people. In the anointing with oil, His power and love is brought into this suffering and this suffering is placed in the perspective of his victory over suffering and death.

If you are seriously ill, you can receive the sacrament of the sick. This used to be called 'the administration of the last Sacrament’ or 'the Last Oil'. They waited to administer it until just before death. That has changed in the last forty years. The Anointing of the Sick can best be received if it really gives the sick person strength. Not just to be strengthened for the final journey.

Some points to remember

• The sacrament of Anointing of the sick is meant for the sick who are really seriously ill. By this we mean: a disease that can lead to death. This can be a serious flu for a weak elderly person, but of course also other serious conditions such as heart condition or cancer.
• The Anointing of the sick is a sacrament. That means that only the living can receive this anointing. For those who have already died, there are very nice other prayers, but no sacraments. It also means that only a priest can administer it. Deacons, pastoral workers and hospital pastores that are not ordained cannot administer this sacrament.

Would you or one of your close relatives like to receive this sacrament? Please contact the priests of the parish in good time: tel. (06) 45 36 10 04.