This month’s monthly prayer intention from Pope Francis is for the pastoral care of the sick: “We pray that the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick confer to those who receive it and their loved ones the power of the Lord and become ever more a visible sign of compassion and hope for all.” Find prayers, reflections and a special video highlighting the pope’s prayer intention at Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, online at www.popesprayerusa.net.
Don’t know much about the sacrament of anointing of the sick, who can get it, and when? It’s not just “last rites” or something meant for people who are dying, but for anyone who seeks comfort and strength from Christ the Divine Physician.It is a sacrament of healing for the spirit and a visible sign of compassion and hope. If you are suffering serious illness or facing surgery, or if you are an elderly person whose frailty has become more pronounced, seek this uplifting sacrament from your local priest. Learn more at www.charlottediocese.org/faith-life/sacraments/anointing-of-the-sick. And if you’re in the Charlotte area, consider attending the healing services listed in the calendar below.