Anointing of the Sick

Anointing of the Sick

The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is administered both to the dying and to those who are gravely ill or are about to undergo a serious operation, for the recovery of their health and for spiritual strength. 

At a time when there are less priests available, it is wise to receive this Sacrament and, as the hour of death approaches, Viaticum (Eucharist as given to a person near or in danger of death), before the last moment. Please let us know of your needs earlier rather than later if this is possible by calling the parish office at 302.764.0357. 

Individuals will ask the priest for anointing as they approach surgery or in an emergency situation. It is important to call the parish office and be anointed either in one’s home, at the hospital, or here at the church. At our local hospitals, you may contact the Parish Office or simply ask the chaplain on duty who will find a priest for the anointing as they are able.

For more information or to schedule an anointing, contact Fr. John Solomon at 302.764.0357 ext. 305 or email him at pastor@ihm.org.

What is Anointing of the Sick?

The sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick was also known by the phrase, Extreme Unction, two Latin words which are known to many as “The Last Rites.”

The Rites involve prayers for the forgiveness of sins, prayers of intercession and anointing, and the actual anointing with the holy oil for the infirm. These were traditionally only experienced at a time close to death, therefore the term “Last Rites.”

The renaming of the sacrament to “The Anointing of the Sick” was brought about when there was a realization of the need to reach out in prayer to God and others at various times when we are seriously ill or perhaps in the process of dying.