In the Scripture, the Letter of Saint James teaches us from the earliest days of the Church that the apostles, ordained by Jesus, our first priests had the power to not only absolve sins, but also to bring Christ’s healing power to those who were sick. All baptized Christians may receive the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick in an emergency. For Catholics, they should be baptized and confirmed. The sacrament can bring healing, and strength to bear one’s suffering and the person is united to the Passion of Christ in whatever they are suffering, There are three Sacraments of healing: the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, the Sacrament of Confession, and the Eucharist itself.

Anointing of the Sick can be received by any Catholic who is elderly, by any awaiting serious surgery or who have a serious illness, or are affected by serious illness.

To receive the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, please call the rectory at 202-726-6262. Please do not wait until it is a serious emergency to call. 

Anointing of the Sick is also celebrated within the community several times per year. Please watch the weekly bulletins and this website for announcements of the “Anointing Masses”.