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Those whose health has been seriously impaired by illness or old age receive a new sign of hope through the laying of hands and the anointing of the sick accompanied by the prayer of faith (James 5:14). Those who receive this sacrament in the faith of the Church will find it a true sign of comfort and support in time of trial. It will work to overcome the sickness, if this is God's will. The sacrament of the anointing of the sick should be celebrated at the beginning of a serious illness when the person is capable of active participation. Please call the parish office at (310) 652-6477 to ask for a priest to anoint the sick person at church or wherever they are receiving health care. During this time of pandemic, a priest might have to pray for the sick person through the telephone.
"The Last Rites"
The celebration of eucharist as viaticum, food for the passage through death to eternal life, is the sacrament proper to the dying Christian. If the dying person is unconscious or unable to eat by mouth, the priest will pray the Commendation of the Dying. If a person has already died, the priest will offer Prayers for the Dead. Please call the parish office at (310) 652-6477 to have a priest offer these "last rites" for the person who is dying or who has already died. During this time of pandemic, a priest might have to pray through the telephone for the person who is dying or alread has died.