Sacrament of the Sick

🌿 What is the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick?

This sacrament is not only for those who are at the point of death, but for any baptized person facing serious illness, frailty due to age, or preparing for major surgery.

Through the priest’s prayer and anointing with holy oil, the sick person receives:

• Strength, peace, and courage to endure suffering

• Forgiveness of sins if unable to confess

• Spiritual (and sometimes physical) healing

• Grace for a peaceful trust in God’s will

📞 Requesting the Sacrament

If you or a loved one would like to receive the Anointing of the Sick, please contact the parish office:

📞 (905) 768-5726
📧 stmarystann@saintcd.com

Please do not hesitate to call anytime if someone is seriously ill or near death. Fr. Stephen will gladly visit homes, hospitals, or care facilities when needed.

In Emergency Call number of the Parish Priest: +1 236 887-3626

🕯️ When should I receive the Anointing of the Sick?

The sacrament can be received:

• Before major surgery or serious medical treatment

• During a serious illness (physical or mental)

• When one’s health begins to significantly decline due to age

• When facing a life-threatening condition

• Any time the faithful desire the strength of Christ’s healing grace

It is not necessary to wait until the final moments of life. The Church encourages us to seek this sacrament early and often when serious illness arises.

🙏 What happens during the celebration?

1. The priest prays for God’s healing grace.

2. He lays hands on the sick person’s head.

3. He anoints the forehead and hands with the Oil of the Sick, saying the Church’s beautiful prayer of healing.

Often, family members and loved ones are encouraged to be present, joining in prayer and support.

💗 Can the sacrament forgive sins?

Yes. If the sick person cannot make a confession, the sacrament grants forgiveness of sins through God’s mercy (CCC 1520–1523). Whenever possible, however, the priest will offer Reconciliation beforehand.

🕊️ What is “Last Rites”?

“Last Rites” refers to a combination of sacraments received near the end of life:

• Confession (Reconciliation)

• Anointing of the Sick

• Viaticum — Holy Communion given for the final journey home to God.

These are not a single ritual, but a final embrace of Christ’s mercy and peace before entering eternal life.

💒 Can this sacrament be celebrated at Mass?

Yes. Periodically, the parish may celebrate Anointing of the Sick during Mass, especially on special occasions like World Day of the Sick (February 11) or during Lenten healing liturgies.
All are welcome to come forward for this gentle and grace-filled encounter with Christ.

🕯️ Bringing Communion to the Sick

If a loved one cannot attend Mass due to illness or frailty, please contact the parish office. Our priest or Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are happy to bring the Eucharist to homes, hospitals, or care centers.

📖 Scripture and Teaching

• “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

• “He touched her hand, and the fever left her.” (Matthew 8:15)

• Catechism of the Catholic Church §§1499–1532