The Anointing of the Sick is for those who have achieved the age of reason and who are at risk of death due to illness (including mental illness) and/or advanced age.

No. Church documents indicate that the sacrament can be given at the point when someone “begins to be in danger of death.” This point could be well before someone dies.

No. We know that sometimes death comes suddenly, so we want you to feel comfortable calling in an emergency at any time, day or night. However, many people who are close to death find comfort in being able to receive communion during Last Rites and in knowing they've received the sacrament. If you are able, please call us once you know that the person will be passing soon, even if it will likely be several days before the person passes.

Our priests will do everything they can to make sure that someone who is dying receives the Anointing of the Sick and Last Rites, but please call them as soon as it becomes clear that death is the likely outcome of a sickness so that they can more likely visit the person before he or she dies.

Yes. There is no limit to the number of times a person can receive the sacrament.

Sacraments are designed to assist us with supernatural graces and gifts from the Holy Spirit. Graces from the Anointing of the Sick allow those who are suffering and at-risk of death to feel confidence in God’s mercy, to have comfort in uniting their suffering with Christ’s suffering, and to strengthen the soul, in addition to the body. The sacrament is a help for completing the journey to our heavenly homeland.

That depends. For an otherwise healthy person, surgery does not pose a great risk of death. However, if a serious illness is the cause for surgery, then the sacrament could be appropriate. It can also be administered if the surgery is very risky and could result in death. Further, if old age has weakened a patient to the point where minor surgery could bring a risk of death, the sacrament could be appropriate.

You are welcome to call one of our clergy to discuss your situation. They can pray with you and help you determine if you should also receive the sacrament.

Unfortunately, minor illnesses are part of life. They can remind us of our mortality, they can bring a level of suffering with them, and they can be disheartening, but they are usually not serious and do not require supernatural assistance for spiritual and/or physical recovery.

However, they can be scary. If you are in this situation, we encourage you to pray and to ask for God’s comfort. One of our priests or clergy would be happy to pray with you and for you, as well. There is a blessing clergy can give for the sick as an alternative to receiving Anointing of the Sick. Reconciliation is another sacrament of healing that is always available.

If you or a loved one is in need of the Anointing of the Sick, contact the Parish Office at (614) 471-0212. Anointings can take place at church, in your home, or in the hospital. Additionally, please notify the parish staff regarding any aged or ill family members who are confined to their home and unable to join us for Mass.