A painting depicting a religious scene where a priest is praying over an elderly man lying in a hospital bed, surrounded by angels, Jesus, and a cross.

Anointing of the Sick

"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. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up."
- James 5:14-15

About the Sacrament

The Anointing of the Sick is a sacrament of healing that brings Christ's grace and comfort to those experiencing illness. Through this sacrament, the Church continues Christ's healing ministry, providing spiritual and sometimes physical healing to those who are sick.

How to Request Anointing

There are several ways to receive the sacrament:

  • Regular Hours: Call the parish office: (801) 479-1112

  • Hospital Visits: Ask the hospital chaplain or call our office.

  • Home Visits: Arrange for a priest to visit your home.

For Family Members

If you have a family member who is ill:

  • Don't wait to contact us - early pastoral care is important.

  • Encourage your loved one to receive the sacrament while they are able to participate fully.

  • Consider arranging for regular pastoral visits for extended illnesses.

  • Let us know if Holy Communion is desired during recovery or ongoing illness.

FAQs

  • Several things happen during the Anointing of the Sick, including:

    • Prayers for healing and strength for the sick person

    • Laying on of hands

    • Anointing with blessed oil on the forehead and hands of the sick person

    • Opportunity for Confession if desired and possible

    • Holy Communion when appropriate and possible

  • Important: Do not wait until the last moment. The Anointing of the Sick is not just for those near death.

    You should seek this sacrament:

    • Before surgery or serious medical procedures

    • When diagnosed with a serious illness

    • When dealing with chronic illness

    • When experiencing the challenges of advanced age

    • When facing mental health challenges

    • During recovery from significant injury

    • When illness worsens

    Many people wrongly believe they should wait until the very end of life. The sacrament is most effective when the person can participate fully and be strengthened for their journey of healing or chronic illness.

  • The sacrament can be received:

    • Whenever a serious illness worsens

    • Before each major surgery or medical procedure

    • During a long illness where your condition changes significantly

    • For different illnesses or conditions (you don't need to wait a certain time between receiving for different conditions)

    Unlike other sacraments, there is no limit to how many times you can receive Anointing of the Sick when it is pastorally appropriate. The Church encourages us to seek this healing sacrament whenever we face serious health challenges.

  • There is no such thing as receiving the Anointing of the Sick "too early" when facing a serious health challenge. The sacrament is:

    • Not a "last rites" sacrament - it's meant for any serious illness

    • More beneficial when received with full awareness and participation

    • A source of grace that can help throughout an illness or recovery

    • Available multiple times if your condition changes or worsens

    If you're unsure whether your situation calls for anointing, please speak with one of our priests. They will help you discern what's appropriate for your circumstances.