Anointing of the Sick is one of the seven Sacraments, and is associated not only with healing but with forgiveness of sins. The anointing of the sick can be administered to any member of the faithful who begins to be in danger by reason of illness or old age.

The sacrament of anointing can be administered to an individual whether at home, in a hospital or institution, or in church; or several sick persons may be anointed within a communal rite, especially if the celebration takes place in a church or hospital.

The sacrament of Anointing of the Sick gives grace for the state into which people enter through sickness. Through the sacrament is given a gift of the Holy Spirit that renews confidence and faith in God and strengthens against temptations to discouragement and anguish at the thought of death and the struggle of death. It thus leads to spiritual healing with forgiveness of sins and, sometimes, to bodily healing as well.

The oil used in the sacrament is usually olive oil, blessed by the bishop of the diocese at the Chrism Mass celebrated on Holy Thursday. The priest anoints the sick person's forehead with oil (usually in the form of a cross), saying: "Through this holy anointing, may the Lord in his love and mercy help you with the grace of the Holy Spirit." He then anoints the hands, saying, "May the Lord who frees you from sin save you and raise you up."

Special Masses of Anointing are held here at St. Joseph's on a designated Saturday morning in October and April each year. Those who are in need of anointing due to illness or advanced age are invited to join us, along with their families, for this special Mass. All are invited to a luncheon after Mass as well.

If you or a loved one is in need of emergency anointing, you may contact a priest weekdays at 248.693-0440, or weekends and evenings at 248.693-0907.  Anointing of the Sick can be arranged with one of our priests, or with priest-chaplains at most of our area hospitals.  Those anticipating serious surgery may even request Anointing of the Sick prior to their scheduled hospitalization, and are encouraged to do so.

Please notify our Parish Office of sick or elderly parishioners who are confined to their homes.  Arrangements can be made for our trained lay pastoral care ministers to  bring Communion to them regularly.  Contact Kathy Hasty, Pastoral Associate, at 248.693-0440 ext. 211 to arrange this.