✝️ Anointing of the Sick (Last Rites)
“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the Church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.” – James 5:14
The Anointing of the Sick is a sacrament of healing, offered to those facing illness, advanced age, or undergoing serious medical procedures. Through this sacrament, the Holy Spirit gives strength, peace, and courage to endure suffering in union with Christ, bringing spiritual restoration and, when God wills, physical healing.
This is not a sacrament reserved only for the dying. We encourage the faithful to request anointing early in their illness or prior to surgery. Family and friends are welcome and encouraged to accompany the person being anointed, as their prayerful presence is an important part of this moment of grace.
To better understand this sacrament, we invite you to watch this brief video explanation:
🎥 What is the Anointing of the Sick?
✝️ Anointing Masses at St. Joseph Parish
Twice a year, we gather as a community to celebrate the Sacrament of the Sick within the context of the Holy Eucharist. During these special Masses, the sacrament is administered to:
- Those currently experiencing illness or undergoing medical treatment
- Seniors and the frail who seek strength and peace through God’s grace
- All in need of spiritual healing
We make special efforts to invite and transport our homebound parishioners who are able to attend. If you or a loved one needs assistance getting to this Mass, please contact the Parish Office.
📞 (707) 447-2354
After the Mass, a light lunch is offered to all participants. Volunteers are needed to help with set-up, clean-up, hospitality, and transportation. Sign-ups will be available after Masses leading up to the event.
✝️ Requesting the Sacrament
The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is available upon request at any time. If you or someone you know is in need of anointing, especially in the case of serious illness or before surgery, please contact the Parish Office.
📞 (707) 447-2354
Let us come together in prayer and support, entrusting our sick and elderly to the healing presence of Christ through this beautiful sacrament.