From the Desk of Father Jason - July 12, 2026

Dear Saint Francis Xavier Parishioners,

Next Saturday, June 18, we will be having our second Mass with the Anointing of the Sick. This Mass will be at 10 am. This will be in addition to our normal Saturday Sacramental schedule.

The Letter of Saint James says “Is anyone among you sick? He should summon the presbyters (priests) of the church, and they should pray over him and anoint [him] with oil in the name of the Lord, and the prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise him up. If he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven” (James 5:14-15).

The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is the Sacrament for those who are sick and those who are dying. It used to be called Extreme Unction or Last Rites. The change in name is to emphasis that it is a Sacrament of Healing.

Who can receive the Sacrament? The Sacrament is for those who are seriously ill (mind, body, and spirit) or in danger of death or suffering the difficulties of old age. The Sacrament may be received each time the believer falls seriously ill or a condition worsens.

Who can administer the Sacrament? Only priests and bishops may administer the Sacrament. This is because one effect of this Sacrament can be the forgiveness of sins.

What is the rite of the Sacrament? Anointing of the Sick includes the anointing of the forehead and hands of the sick with blessed oil accompanied by the liturgical prayer that asks for the grace of the Sacrament. 

What are the effects of the Sacrament? The hoped-for effect is that, if it be God’s will, the person be healed of illness. But even if there is no healing of body, the primary effect of the Sacrament is spiritual healing by which the sick person receives the Holy Spirit’s gift of peace and courage.

Please take this chance to be anointed.

Sincerely through Jesus, 

Fr. Jason