When Should We Call a Priest?

Among the seven sacraments, there is one especially intended to strengthen those who are ill—the Anointing of the Sick. Over the centuries this sacrament was conferred more and more exclusively on those at the point of death and as a result it received the name “Extreme Unction.” Consequently, hospital workers and family members would summon a priest in the last moments of a person’s life—often when he or she was unconscious. Even if a priest responded immediately, he might arrive after the person died. The person would not have had the opportunity to confess, receive the Apostolic Pardon, Holy Communion, and Anointing—the greatest spiritual comfort the Church can offer at such a time!

Consider how beneficial it is for one to be conscious to receive the sacraments. At times, family members feel that the arrival of a priest would alarm or upset their sick loved one. Priests are not unaware of such a concern and strive to place the sick person at ease. While the Sacrament serves to comfort the dying, it is not only for those at the point of death. It is intended to help the chronically ill and the elderly who are in a weakened condition. Children who are seriously ill or facing major surgery can be anointed. The sacrament can be administered more than once even during the same illness if a person’s condition became more serious.

Our parish has offered a semi-annual communal celebration of the Anointing of the Sick. These have been well-attended, and we hope to continue this practice. It is fitting to be anointed before a serious operation. Please feel free to request the sacrament before being admitted to the hospital. This can be done after Mass or by a visit to the parish office. The relatives of someone who is ill at home should not wait until the last moments of a person’s life before contacting the parish.