The Sacrament of the Sick
This special sacrament of healing is administered to Catholic Adults who are in some danger of death due to:
- serious illness,
- or because of impending surgery under general anaesthetic,
- or who have a chronic condition,
- or who are elderly and have become increasingly frailer.
When should I be anointed?
The Church recommends that I should be anointed:
- prior to going into hospital for a significant operation,
- as soon as I am diagnosed with a serious illness or life limiting condition
- or when it has worsened or become more acute, (and / or) when,
- due to my age, I have become increasingly frailer.
The Church recommends that we do not wait for the Sacraments to be administered solely as ‘extreme unction’. The Church wishes us to know Jesus’ closeness during the illness, not just at the end. Indeed, ‘Last Rites’ does not mean Last Minute! These last rites include Confession, Holy Communion, and the Anointing, and where appropriate the Apostolic Pardon. Hence, it is best to not to wait until a person is unconscious so that they may participate more fully in these rites by making a profession of faith and an act of contrition along with the anointing.
To receive the sacrament of the sick, ask Fr. Simon after any Mass or book an appointment to receive it privately or even at home if coming to the Church would be difficult.
Catholic Children who are gravely ill should ask to complete the Sacraments of Initiation (Holy Communion & Confirmation) so they may be reassured that they are dear to God and part of his family; only after receiving these sacraments and having reached the age of reason would the anointing be necessary.
To arrange a non-urgent visit:
If you would like to arrange for a priest to visit, please contact the parish office on farnham@abdiocese.org.uk or by telephone 01252 716711.
To arrange an urgent visit:
If you need an urgent home or ‘care home’ visit, please contact Fr. Simon: by email –simon.dray@abdiocese.org.uk & farnham@abdiocese.org.uk
You can also leave a message on the house answerphone (01252 716711), but email can be accessed globally and therefore more quickly.
Fr. Robin at the Catholic Parish of Ash may be able to cover if Fr. Simon is away / not available (01252 321422)
If You find yourself in Frimley, Farnham, Guildford or another Hospital:
Ask the Ward to contact the on-call Catholic chaplain and the duty priest will respond. If you know you are going into hospital, ask Fr. Simon to anoint you in advance.