The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is a sacrament of healing through which Christ offers His grace, strength, peace, and comfort to those who are seriously ill, preparing for surgery due to a serious illness, or experiencing the effects of old age. Through this sacrament, the Church prays for healing according to God's will, forgiveness of sins when needed, and the strength to endure suffering with hope and faith.
The Anointing of the Sick is not only for those who are near death. Anyone facing a serious illness or significant decline in health is encouraged to receive this sacrament. The sacrament may also be received again if a person's condition worsens or if they recover and later become seriously ill again.
When someone is nearing the end of life, the Church desires that they receive the sacraments of Penance, Anointing of the Sick, and Holy Eucharist as Viaticum ("food for the journey"). These sacraments bring the comfort of Christ and prepare us to enter eternal life with Him.
If you or a loved one would like to receive the Anointing of the Sick, please contact the parish office. If the need is urgent or someone is in danger of death, please call the parish office immediately at (308)236-9171 and let the staff know it is an emergency so a priest can be contacted as soon as possible.
If you are planning ahead for surgery or would like to discuss receiving the sacrament, we encourage you to contact the parish office to make arrangements.