When should we call a priest?

When Should We Call the Priest?

Among the seven sacraments, the Anointing of the Sick is especially intended to strengthen those who are ill. Over the centuries this sacrament was conferred more and more exclusively on those at the point of death and as a result it received the name “Extreme Unction.” Consequently, hospital workers and family members would summon a priest in the last moments of a person’s life—often while unconscious. Unfortunately, even if a priest responded immediately, he might arrive after the person died. Thus, the person would not have had the opportunity to confess, receive the Apostolic Pardon, Holy Communion, and Anointing—the greatest spiritual comfort the Church can offer at such a time!
 
Consider how beneficial it is for one to be conscious to receive the sacraments. At times, family members fear that the arrival of a priest would alarm or upset their sick loved one. Priests are not unaware of such a concern and  strive to place the sick person at ease. While the Sacrament serves to comfort the dying, it is not only for those at the point of death. It is also intended to help the chronically ill and the elderly who are in a weakened condition. Children who are seriously ill or facing major surgery can be anointed. The sacrament can be administered more than once even during the same illness if a person’s condition becomes more serious.
 
It is also fitting to be anointed before a serious operation. Please feel free to request the sacrament before being admitted to the hospital. This can be done after Mass or by a visit to the parish office. The relatives of someone who is ill at home should not wait until the last moments of a person’s life before contacting the parish.