The sick and housebound of the parish are attended by the priests in their homes every month. Lay Ministers of the Eucharist are also available to bring Holy Communion to the sick on Sundays or in time of need, if requested to do so.

Those who are sick or infirm through old age may like to receive the strength of the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick.  If you would like to be visited in your home by the priest monthly or at any time please contact the Parish Office.

What Is the Sacrament of the Sick?

The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is exactly what it says. It is a prayerful celebration for someone or for a group of people who are ill and are blessed by the priest with Holy Oil. It is not a sign that someone is dying as it was perceived in olden times. It is not a magical ritual; the person doesn’t automatically get better immediately after an anointing. God’s healing and loving presence are called upon that the sick person might be raised up and restored to health.

Symbolism

The words of blessing over the oil say it all. It is “oil intended to ease the sufferings of your people”. Oil soothes and heals. Oil blessed for the sick is a sign of the Anointed One (Messiah) of God. The person so anointed receives the healing and saving power of the One who saves (Messiah).

Oil

The oil that is used is olive oil. It is blessed by the Bishop at the ‘Chrism Mass’, which is celebrated in the Cathedral of every diocese during Holy Week.  Following this Mass the oil is distributed to the parishes of the diocese for use throughout the following year.

How?

A person is anointed on the forehead and the palms of the hands while the priest says: “Through this holy anointing may the Lord in his love and mercy help you by the grace of the Holy Spirit. May the Lord who heals you, save you and raise you up.”

Who Can Be Anointed?

Anyone in ’serious illness’, those who are infirm, in advanced years, or anyone prior to surgery.  A person does not have to be ‘in danger of death’ to receive the Sacrament.

Holy Communion for the Housebound

Those who are housebound or unable to attend Mass may receive Holy Communion in their home.  This is usually on a monthly basis.  To arrange for this please contact the Parish Office.