Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick and Dying   This sacrament is designed to minister to anyone who is ill regardless of its severity, or for those close to death.  In the past is was a sacrament of ‘fear’ more than anything else.  In fact, before this sacrament was revised, people were not encouraged to contact a priest as this clearly indicated to the family and the one suffering that life was about to end!   The first change was the terminology from ‘Extreme Unction’ to the ‘Sacrament of the sick and dying’.  That in itself alleviates the fear factor and offers it as a spiritual strengthening for both the one in sickness as well as the family. It empowers the one suffering to accept the Will of God in that particular situation. It brings a sense of spiritual calmness on their ‘troubled waters’ of life.  It empowers the family to be a source of strength, support and encouragement to the one suffering.    Once administered, the sense of the Lord’s presence draws everyone more closely together. The sacrament is not a guarantee that healing is in the Divine Will of God.  It assures that whatever the outcome; God will be present and guide the patient and family throughout the entire journey.   Let it be known that many who have been thought to be beyond the skills of medical science have been restored to health and returned to their loved ones.  God does heal despite the limitations of humankind.   If you are ill or homebound, or going to the hospital for inpatient services or surgery please let the parish priest know of this so you may receive the Sacrament of the Sick and Dying