The Sacrament of the Sick (Anointing, sometimes known as Extreme Unction or the “Last Rites”) is the Church’s blessing for Catholics who are seriously impaired (physically or mentally) by old age or illness, and for those who are in danger of death through any bodily condition (including the risk posed by a major operation).
A Catholic aware of being seriously impaired, or in danger of death, should request this sacrament; or if incapacitated, anyone who is caring for them should summon a priest on their behalf. The Catholic does not need to be conscious in order to receive this sacrament; but it is only given to those who are still alive. A priest should be called to a Catholic who is dying as a matter of ugency.
If a Catholic has already died, the Sacrament of the Sick is not given, and there is no need to contact a priest unless the family members express a desire to speak with the priest or have prayers said around the body of their relative. Otherwise, the family should make contact with a Funeral Director.
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.
Catholics who are sick or housbound and who reside in the Caerphilly area should contact the parish office, so arrangements can be made for you to receive Holy Communion regularly at home.
