Anointing of the Sick is a sacrament of healing offered to those who are seriously ill, elderly, or near death. Through the prayer of the priest and the anointing with oil, the person receives spiritual strength, comfort, and, if God wills, physical healing and the forgiveness of sins.
For decades, this sacrament was misunderstood as 'Last Rites,' reserved only for the dying. Many people fear receiving it, thinking it means their end is near. Families sometimes delay calling a priest until the very last moment–too late.
In reality, the Anointing of the Sick is for anyone seriously ill, not just those near death. It can be received multiple times, especially before major surgery or serious treatment.
"Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the Church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. The prayer offered in faith will heal the sick person; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven." (James 5:14-15)
From the start, this was a sacrament of healing, just like Confession. It can and should be received multiple times, not only at life’s end.
Do not wait until the last moment. If a loved one is in the hospital or has only hours or days to live call the priest immediately. Even if the person isn’t bedridden, they can still be anointed.
To arrange an anointing, contact the parish office. After hours, leave a message with the patient's name, condition, and hospital location.
IMPORTANT: If the priest from our parish is unavailable and the situation is urgent, inform the hospital nurse, who will call an on-duty chaplain. It’s more important that the person receives the sacrament than whether the priest is personally known or speaks Polish.
(905) 544-0726
For after-hours emergencies, please call the emergency line:
(905) 544-8783