From the Pastor's Desk: Archives

Anointing of the Sick

One of the important tasks in a parish is the pastoral care of the sick and dying. This is accomplished through our prayer for them at Mass, homebound visitors, visits to the hospital and the Anointing of the Sick.

I am very grateful to Ed Ciszewski who weekly brings the Body of Christ to those who cannot join us for the Eucharist. This reminds our brothers and sisters that we are still thinking of them and value them as members of our family of faith. Occasionally, I discover someone who is unable to leave their home and does not have such visits. Please do not hesitate to contact the parish office if you or a family member are unable to leave your home due to infirmity and are interested in receiving the Eucharist. I will make an initial visit and then pass along the contact information to Ed Ciszewski.

Also, please keep in mind that the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is meant to be celebrated with those who are seriously ill to give them the strength of faith they need to persevere in faith, hope and love. By not celebrating this sacrament until the last possible minute, the sick person is deprived of a valuable spiritual tool in their suffering and there is always the risk of a priest not being available right away. The Sacrament may be received by anyone facing a serious illness, operation or old age. If you are going in for a procedure, surgery or hospitalization or going into hospice care, please call the office so that I can be sure to offer you the anointing and provide the support that will be needed.

If someone is approaching death, it is best if the family or caregiver can let me know while the patient is still conscious and can receive Viaticum (even if they are only able to consume a small fragment of the Host). At this time, the dying person may also receive absolution and the Apostolic Pardon (which prepares the soul for entrance into heaven), in addition to being anointed.

If I'm not contacted until after death, I may offer prayers commending the deceased to the mercy of God, but not the sacraments, which are for the living. This is why it is imperative not to wait too long to contact the priest, so that he may bring the assurance that only the sacraments can give. I'm available at any hour, day or night - after office hours, call the main number (908 735-4024). When leaving the message, please speak slowly and clearly, spell your name, and repeat your phone number. I will respond as soon as possible; if you have not heard back from me within 30 minutes, please try again. I want to make sure that I can offer spiritual care to you and your family whenever the need arises.

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