Christ’s Presence in Times of Illness
The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is one of the Church’s sacraments of healing. Through the prayer of the Church and the anointing with holy oil, Christ brings strength, peace, courage, and healing to those facing serious illness, surgery, the challenges of aging, or the approach of death.
The Anointing of the Sick is not only for those who are near death. Catholics may receive this sacrament whenever they begin to face a serious illness, a significant decline in health, or major surgery.
“Are any among you sick? They should call for the elders of the church and have them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord.”
— James 5:14
When Should Someone Receive Anointing?
A person may receive the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick when:
- Facing a serious illness
- Preparing for major surgery
- Experiencing a significant decline in health
- Struggling with the frailty of advanced age
- Approaching the end of life
If you are unsure whether someone should receive the sacrament, please contact the parish office. We are happy to help.
Requesting Anointing
If you or a loved one would like to receive the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, please contact the parish office as soon as possible. If someone is hospitalized, entering hospice care, or experiencing a serious medical emergency, please do not wait until the final moments to call.
Parish Offices
(563) 332-7910 Vianney Campus
(563) 359-0345 Lourdes Campus
Communion for the Sick and Homebound
St. Joan of Arc Parish is committed to caring for parishioners who are unable to attend Mass because of illness, hospitalization, or mobility limitations.
Our Health Ministries team coordinates visits, prayer, and the distribution of Holy Communion to those who are homebound or residing in care facilities.