The Anointing of the Sick or Extreme Unction, is the ultimate healing sacrament, available whenever our health is seriously impaired by sickness or old age. God is always with us in our illness, loving us into health of mind, body and soul. Through our faith we know that we will have life forever.
Some people have the idea that this sacrament is rather like the sign of death or approaching death – it is only offered when all hope is lost. In fact the reverse is true; it is a sign of life, the eternal life promised by Jesus Christ, here and now as well as in the future.
This Sacrament may be celebrated at the Church either during a celebration of the Eucharist or at a service for those who are sick. More frequently, it is celebrated at home, during a House mass or in a hospital or rest home.
Holy Family Parish looks after Catholic’s who are residing in St Margaret’s Hospital in Beach Road, if you should know anyone who is sick at home or has moved into St Margaret’s please contact the Parish Office, on (09) 834 6677 or email hfparish@xtra.co.nz so that we can add them to the our Visitation List.
