How and when do I have a family member anointed?
Any Catholic who is aging, seriously ill, or suffers from a chronic physical, emotional or mental disability is encouraged to celebrate the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick on a regular basis.
The Catholic parishes in Waterloo celebrate the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick in communal anointing services which usually take place during a Sunday liturgy at least once a year. Individuals who anticipate a serious surgery or hospitalization may arrange to celebrate the Sacrament of Anointing individually or at a weekday Mass prior to the hospitalization.
In the case of an emergency, the patient or a family member should ask the hospital chaplain or pastoral care staff to arrange for the Anointing of the Sick and/or the “Last Rites.” This is usually a faster and more effective way than calling the parish office directly, especially if the emergency occurs during the night or on a weekend when parish offices are closed.
The "Last Rites" include Confession, Holy Communion and prayers for the dying, and are reserved for persons who are in immediate danger of death. Neither the Anointing of the Sick or the Last Rites may be administered if a person has died. If the person has died, the pastor, a parish staff member, or a member of the hospital's pastoral care staff may lead family members in prayer and reflection for the deceased.
Catholics who are divorced and remarried outside of the Church may receive the Sacrament of Anointing and Last Rites if they are in danger of death.
• For more information about Anointing of the Sick or administration of the Last Rites, contact the parish office in the parish where you participate.
Related Link:
• Directory of Catholic Parishes in Waterloo
Last Update: 10.17.17