Anointing of the Sick
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If this is a sacramental emergency that requires the presence of a priest, please call 845-227-8380 and select #3.
"Is anyone among you sick? He should summon the presbyters 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." - James 5:14-15
If you or a loved one is sick, please consider receiving the Anointing of the Sick.
The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is not just for those in immediate danger of passing away. It can be received by anyone who is sick - phsycially, spiritually, or mentally - as well as the elderly and those of any age preparing for surgery or other health procedures. Through the Sacrament, one is strengthened through the gifts of the Holy Spirit and the prayers of the entire Church.
At St. Columba, you can receive the Anointing of the Sick after any Mass; just ask one of our priests. We can also offer the Sacrament by appointment - please call the Rectory at 845-227-8380.
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Emergency anointing/last rites
If a loved one in our local area is in danger of death and in need of sacraments, please call the rectory at any time - 845-227-8380 - and press #3. This will ring our Emergency Phone, which is only for these types of calls. If the priest does not pick up the Emergency Phone right away, please leave a clear message with your name and phone number. We will come to your house or the hospital at any hour, even in the middle of the night.
If someone is in danger of dying, please do not wait to contact us. You are not bothering us - this is our ministry as clergy! We would much rather you "bother" us and be able to deliver Last Rites before a person dies. Once a person has passed, we are not able to administer last rites, though we are happy to pray prayers over them if they happen to pass while we are en route.
For medical and mental health emergencies, please call 911, 988, or the Dutchess County Stabilization Center at 845-485-9700
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What is the difference between anointing and last rites?
Anointing of the Sick is a sacrament of healing administered to anyone, not just those who are on the brink of death. The purpose of Anointing of the Sick is to bring peace and healing to a person experiencing illness or about to face a health procedure or obstacle. It is meant to strengthen a person for the challenges ahead.
Last Rites is actually a series of sacraments received at once to prepare someone for death. It includes final reception of the Eucharist (Viaticum), confession, and anointing, as much as the person is able to participate. The purpose is not for healing (though of course it is wonderful when that does occur) but rather to prepare someone for the final piece of their earthly journey.
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NEED ADDITIONAL HELP?Our Ministry of Care offers support to parishioners who are in need. We provide rides to Mass and doctor's appointments, wellness checks for the elderly, and light yardwork. If you need help, please reach out! Your fellow parishioners would love to reach out to help.
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