“Now there was a man full of leprosy in one of the towns where Jesus was; and when he saw Jesus, he fell prostrate, pleaded with him, and said, “Lord, if you wish, you can make me clean.” Jesus stretched out his hand, touched him, and said, “I do will it. Be made clean.” And the leprosy left him immediately (Luke 5: 12 – 13)
The Sacrament of the Sick, or Anointing, celebrates God’s healing touch and will, shown to us by Jesus Christ in many miracles, or displays, of healing.
Christ’s care for the sick and suffering continues in the Christian community. Miraculous cures are rare, though they happen sometimes and in some places, such as Lourdes.
The Sacrament of Anointing expresses Christ’s compassion and celebrates the touch of Christ in his Body the Church. It’s grace gives us encouragement, and the spiritual gifts of patience and courage.
Who can receive the Sacrament of the Sick?
Any member of the Church who falls sick.
How often can a sick person receive the Sacrament?
Whenever there is a significant deterioration in their condition.
The Sacrament can also be received before an operation, in which case the rite includes a prayer for the surgeons.
How can I get to receive the Sacrament when I am sick?
In hospital you can ask the Catholic Chaplain, or ask the staff to contact him for you: They or the switch-board can page him in an emergency.
At home, you should contact your Parish Priest and ask him to call.
A Catholic in hospital requiring the Sacrament of the Sick should make arrangements through the Hospital Chaplaincy.
A Catholic at home or in a nursing home in the Caerphilly area requiring the Sacrament of the Sick should contact our parish office on 029 2088 3192; if there is no reply and the need is urgent, contact the Pontypridd Presbytery on 01443 402 439, Ynyshir Presbytery 01443 682 689, Rhondda Parish on 01443 432 142, or Abercynon Presbytery on 01443 740 353. If all these options fail, contact any Cardiff parish.
A deacon may perform an emergency baptism or lead prayers after someone has died.