Anointing of the Sick
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By the sacred anointing of the sick and the prayer of the priests the whole Church commends those who are ill to the suffering and glorified Lord, that he may raise them up and save them and indeed she exhorts them to contribute to the good of the People of God by freely uniting themselves to the Passion and death of Christ.
Catechism of the Catholic Church 1499
Among the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church, the Anoiting of the Sick is especially intended to strengthen those who are afflicted with an illness. The sacrament dates back to ancient times when the sick were anointed with blessed oil by priests as a means of asking God’s blessing on them for both healing and strength.The Anointing of the Sick is not only for those who are at the point of death. It is appropriate for any member of the faithful who is in danger of death from sickness or old age, and even just prior to a serious operation.
In an emergency, a Catholic priest will do his best to rush to the bedside of a person in need of the sacrament of anointing. However, some of the most beautiful celebrations of this sacrament take place at home, where the person to be anointed can join in prayer comfortably and in an unhurried manner, and be strengthened by the presence of family members.
Quite often, a person who is dying will also request the presence of a priest to hear his/her confession, and/or the Eucharist as “viaticum,” or strength for the journey to meet God face-to-face. A desire to receive the Eucharist should be expressed at the time the priest is called so that he can bring Holy Communion with him.
Please contact the Rectory office at (310) 833-3541 for any questions about the Anointing of the Sick.
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Need Anointing?
In the event of an emergency please call our parish office.
If the emergency occurs after normal business hours please call our main line (310) 833-3541 and press 1, this will direct you to an available priest.Otherwise, if you would like to schedule a visit for someone that is ill, please contact the rectory during normal business hours.
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Contact Us
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Rectory Officeofficemarystar.org
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Priest on CallEmergency request for Sacrament
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