Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick
The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is one of the Church’s seven sacraments and is a powerful sign of Christ’s healing presence. Through the prayers of the priest and the anointing with the Oil of the Sick, those who are seriously ill, preparing for surgery, suffering from the effects of old age, or facing a grave health condition receive God’s grace, strength, peace, and comfort.
This sacrament reminds us that Jesus is the Divine Physician who walked alongside the sick, brought healing to those in need, and continues to accompany His people in times of illness and suffering. While physical healing may occur according to God’s will, the primary purpose of the sacrament is to strengthen the soul, deepen our trust in the Lord, unite our suffering with Christ’s, forgive sins when the person is unable to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and prepare us for eternal life.
The Anointing of the Sick is not only for those who are dying. it should be received whenever a Catholic begins to face a serious illness, before major surgery, or when the frailty of advanced age becomes a significant burden. The sacrament may also be received again if a person’s condition worsens or if a new serious illness develops.
At St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish, we encourage anyone who is seriously ill or homebound to contact the parish office to arrange for the Sacrament of the Sick. If you or a loved one is hospitalized or nearing the end of life, please notify the parish as soon as possible so that our priest can provide this sacrament and pastoral care of the Church.
No one should face illness or suffering alone. Through this sacrament, Christ offers His healing love, strengthens us in faith, and reminds us that He is always present, especially in our moments of greatest need.
Request the Sacrament of the Sick
If you or a loved one would like to receive the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, please call the parish office at 860 283 5817 to make arrangements.
If someone is hospitalized, entering a nursing facility, preparing for major surgery, or experiencing serious illness, we encourage you to notify the parish as soon as possible. Early notification allows us to provide the sacrament and pastoral care when it is most needed.
In the case of a medical emergency or if someone is nearing death, please call the parish office immediately. Every effort will be made to have a priest respond as quickly as possible to administer the sacraments. To request the Anointing of the Sick, please call the parish office during regular business hours. If you need the sacrament outside of business hours, please call the parish office and press 9.