Anointing of the Sick

A sacrament of healing, Anointing of the Sick was once known as “extreme unction.” The idea behind this sacrament is that we are all members of the body of Christ. When one of us suffers, all of us suffer, and all of God’s creation suffers with us.

This is a ministry of comfort. Through Anointing, the sick are reminded that Christ and the Church are in communion with their suffering. The Holy Spirit shares the blessings of health, trust in God, and strength against temptation.

The Sacrament of Anointing is not a magic cure for all that ails you. The terminally ill may or may not receive physical healing, but they will receive spiritual healing.

If you or someone in your family is seriously ill or going into surgery, call a Priest. As minister of this sacrament, the Priest will lay hands on the head of the sick, pray, and anoint the sick with oil specially blessed for this occasion. This sacrament can be celebrated more than once.

Call the Cathedral at (615) 327-2330 to request Anointing of the Sick.