The Lord himself showed great concern for the bodily and spiritual welfare of the sick and commanded his followers to do likewise… since then the Church has never ceased to celebrate this sacrament for its members by the anointing and prayer of its priests, commending those who are ill to the suffering and glorified Lord…
General Introduction to the Pastoral Care of the Sick
The Anointing of the Sick is a sacrament of strengthening for those who are seriously ill, preparing for significant surgery due to illness, or who have simply become weakened by old age. By the special grace of the sacrament, the sick raised in a prayer of faith that they might bear suffering bravely and without anxiety, knowing that they are close to the heart of Christ.
The sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is an opportunity to experience the healing grace of God whether of body, mind or spirit--not just in danger of death.
The first Friday of each month Our Lady of Sorrows celebrates a healing Mass at 12:00 PM where the sacrament of anointing of the sick is offered. It is very fitting to celebrate it within the Eucharist, the memorial of the Lord’s Passover.
If someone cannot attend the healing Mass, the sacrament can be celebrated in the family home, a hospital or care facility. If you need a priest to come to you please call the parish office at 503-775-6731 to make arrangements. Or, see the priest before or after Mass on Sunday to receive the sacrament or make arrangements.
We also offer Holy Communion for those who are unable to celebrate Mass on a regular basis. Trained and commissioned volunteers bring the love of the community to the homebound by sharing that Sunday's Scripture reading and Holy Communion. Please call James Bartel at 503.775.6731 x 109 or at jbartel@olspdx.org to make arrangements.