The Anointing of the Sick is one of the sacraments of healing offered by the Catholic Church. The Letter to St. James tells us: “Are any among you sick? Let them summon the presbyters of the Church and they will pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord, and the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise them up. If they have committed any sins, they will be forgiven.” (5:14-15)
How is the sacrament celebrated? Those who are seriously ill should contact a priest of the parish and arrange for a time to celebrate the sacrament, either at the rectory or, if more convenient, at home or at a hospital. Examples of serious illness are: cancer, terminal illness, pre-surgery, etc. The sacrament may be repeated if, after having recovered, the person becomes seriously ill once again.
Those who wish to arrange for the sacrament should specify to the priest what the nature of the illness is, the level or urgency, and any other important information. Every effort will be made by the priests to see the sick person as soon as reasonably possible. If death is immanent, that fact should be relayed to the parish secretary or priest.
Parish phone number: (516) 223-0723
Emergency Line: (516) 965-9459