Today, the sacrament is administered not only to the dying but also to those who are sick; it is administered with the laying on of hands, a biblical symbol of Jesus’ touch and the outpouring of the Spirit of strength, love and forgiveness, together with the anointing with blessed oil. People are encouraged to request the sacrament during serious illness or before a serious operation.
...the sacrament is administered not only to the dying but also to those who are sick
If we only knew the precious treasure hidden in infirmities, we would receive them with the same joy with which we receive the greatest benefits, and we would bear them without ever complaining or showing signs of weariness. St. Vincent de Paul
The sick are at the very heart of the parish here in Roscommon. It is in often in suffering that we come to experience the love, compassion and closeness of Christ. The priests of the parish visit the sick each First Friday of the month. There is no need for the sick to fast before the priest comes. Eucharistic Ministers also bring Holy Communion to the sick of the parish on Sundays by request.
It is important to inform the Parish office or one of the priests, if you or someone you know,would like to be added to the list for First Friday calls.
“We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Romans 5:3-4
The healing is not only a prayer for the healing of the physical body, but also a prayer for inner healing to help the individual to understand that God is with them should they ever feel alone or scared. The prayer for forgiveness also contributes to the inner healing and ultimately a feeling of peacefulness.
If you or a loved one is facing an operation or has been rushed into hospital then please contact us and we will get back to you as quickly as possible
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Taken from The Faith Of The Catholic Church a CTS Publication
194. What does the Scripture say about the Anointing of the Sick?
The Apostle James says,”If one of you is ill, he should send for the Elders of the Church, and they must anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord and pray over him. The prayer of faith will save the sick man and the Lord will raise him up again; and if he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven.
197. When should this Sacrament be received?
The Anointing of the Sick is for those faithful who begin to find themselves in some danger of death through sickness or old age, and is by no means only for those at the point of death.