The Catholic Church offers healing through the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, one of the seven sacraments. It is the proper sacrament for those Catholics whose health is seriously impaired by sickness. It is administered by the priest on behalf of the whole community and should be celebrated with members of the faith community whenever possible.
As indicated in the publication, “Pastoral Care of the Sick”, through the Sacrament of Anointing, “the Church supports the sick in their struggle against illness and continues Christ’s messianic work of healing. All who are united in the bond of a common baptism and a common faith are joined together in the body of Christ since what happens to one member affects all. The Sacrament of Anointing effectively expresses the share that each one has in the suffering of others. When the priest anoints the sick, he is anointing in the name and with the power of Christ Himself.”
Many of us know someone who is sick in some way, someone who needs healing. Our Holy Father, Pope Francis recently addressed the importance of this Sacrament, as published in the media outlet, “Rome Reports”. He stated, “Through the celebration of the Anointing of the Sick, the Church accompanies us in facing the profound mystery of suffering and death. In a culture that all too often refuses to speak of these realities, we need all the more to recognize the beauty of the Sacrament and to appreciate, in spiritual solidarity with the whole Church, the presence of the Lord Jesus, who strengthens us in faith and hope, and reminds us that nothing, not even evil and death, can ever separate us from the saving power of His love.”
The following “Healing Touch Prayer” provided by the media outlet “Connect US”, reflects the sentiments of Our Holy Father:
Healing God, thank You that You hear and answer my prayers.
The Bible says that You will meet all my needs according to the riches of Your glory in Christ Jesus.
Look on my physical, emotional, and spiritual needs today, Lord, and reach out with Your healing touch.
Remind me that there is nothing that I encounter that is beyond the reach of Your love.
May Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard my heart and my mind in Christ Jesus.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Sacrament of Anointing is offered at Saint Brigid on the third Sunday of the month and by appointment. We also offer the Sacrament at health care and other facilities as needed. Parishioners are advised to participate in this wonderful Sacrament of healing when appropriate and avail themselves of the power of Our Lord’s saving grace.