One of the seven sacraments we celebrate very often as priests is the Anointing of the Sick. Frequently it is in the hospital or hospice following a call from distraught family members. They are following the words of St. James in his eponymous letter:

'Is anyone among you sick? He should summon the priests of the church, and they should pray over him and anoint 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." (Jas. 5:14-15)

Fathers Tom, Andrew, Brian and I also receive calls to visit the sick and elderly in their homes and we can arrange for anointings in our parish office. We are also asked to anoint after Mass just before someone is about to go into major surgery.

It is such a beautiful sacramental experience - one that we Christians really believe brings the healing powers and forgiveness of Jesus to someone suffering in body, mind or spirit. This means we also get calls to anoint the addicted (to substance or behaviors) and clinically depressed and anxious.

Jesus didn't set any conditions or qualifications when He said:

"Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart and you will find rest for yourselves."(Mt. 11:28-29)

Certainly we know that not every illness or anxiety calls for the Anointing of the Sick. Jesus also gives us the Eucharist and Confession, along with personal prayer and meditation and leaning on our fellow Christians. Many of the beautiful moments have I experienced in prayer with a sick parishioner is simply reading this Gospel passage and reminding her or him that Jesus is waiting to embrace. He has promised us all rest and peace.

So, in the midst of whatever burdens our souls and/or bodies this week (or that of a loved one) let's never let the Savior's call and invitation slip too far out of mind. He's always present ready and desiring to heal you. Call us for more information on the Anointing of the Sick.

In July the Church traditionally celebrates the Precious Blood of Jesus. This follows our month-long celebration of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus in June. In both we recall the Lord's redemptive love for us, His holy people. In each Mass He says again "Take this, chalice of my Blood, the Blood of the new and eternal covenant, which will be poured out for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Do this in memory of me." What an awesome mystery and sign of Jesus' love and Real Presence!

We also just celebrated Fr. Andrew's birthday - please join me in prayer and wishing him a very happy birthday and many more blessed years! We are so grateful for his encouragement. Ad multos annos pater!

God bless you all and your families this week. Remember that the family that prays together stays together!

Fr. David Halm, C.S.C.
Pastor

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