Anointing of the Sick
SACRAMENTS OF HEALINGThe Sacrament
Healing Grace in Difficult Times
In the Church’s Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, through the ministry of the priest, it is Jesus who touches the sick to heal them from sin — and sometimes even from physical ailment. His cures were signs of the arrival of the Kingdom of God. The core message of his healing tells us of his plan to conquer sin and death by his dying and rising.
The Rite of Anointing tells us there is no need to wait until a person is at the point of death to receive the Sacrament. A careful judgment about the serious nature of the illness is sufficient.
When the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is given, the hoped-for effect is that, if it is God’s will, the person be physically healed of illness. But even if there is no physical healing, the primary effect of the Sacrament is a spiritual healing by which the sick person receives the Holy Spirit’s gift of peace and courage to deal with the difficulties that accompany serious illness or the frailty of old age.
When to Request Anointing
You Do Not Need to Wait
- Serious or chronic illness
- Before surgery
- A family member who is hospitalized
- The frailty of old age
- Any situation where spiritual healing and strength are needed
Request Anointing
We’re Here for You
Please reach out to us if you or a loved one is in need of the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick. Our pastoral staff will respond promptly and with care.
For urgent situations — such as a family member who is critically ill or in immediate danger — please call the parish office directly rather than using this form.
Parish Office
Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
301-360-9581
stkatharinedrexel@saintdrexel.org
You Are Not Alone
Our Parish Walks With You
In times of illness, suffering, and uncertainty, Saint Katharine Drexel is here to support you and your family. Please do not hesitate to reach out — we consider it a privilege to walk alongside you.