Our Lady Star of the Sea | St Bernard of Clairvaux | St Saviour
Sacrament of the Sick
‘By the sacred anointing of the sick and the prayer of the priests the whole Church commends those who are ill to the suffering and glorified Lord, that he may raise them up and save them. And indeed she exhorts them to contribute to the good of the People of God by freely uniting themselves to the Passion and death of Christ.’ (CCC 1499)
The Sacrament of the Sick is administered normally in situations of the immediate prospect of surgery, for those who are of significant age, or those in danger of death. That said, the Rite of Anointing tells us there is no need to wait until a person is at the point of death to receive the sacrament. A careful judgment about the serious nature of the illness is sufficient; in this way, it is appropriate for both children and adults.
Significant Age
For those of advanced years whose strength is noticeably declining, even without a critical illness, the Church offers this grace to sustain them.
Who Can Receive?
The Sacrament of the Sick is available to any Catholic—child or adult—facing serious illness, the prospect of major surgery, or the challenges of advanced age. It is a source of strength and healing, and there is no need to wait until the point of death to request it.
Serious Illness or Surgery
Facing a serious sickness or preparing for an upcoming major operation is sufficient reason for both children and adults to find comfort in this sacrament.
Danger of Death
When health is seriously impaired or life is in immediate danger, the sacrament commends the person to the suffering and glorified Lord for salvation.
How to Request
Please contact the parish office for more information about receiving the Sacrament of the Sick.
If there is danger of death, please get in touch with the clergy by approaching them after Mass or ringing the parish phone on 0151 355 5877.
If you or someone you know is in hospital and requires this sacrament, please ask the staff on the ward to contact a Catholic priest for you.
Pastoral Support & Care
The parish of Our Lady Star of the Sea is available to support the sick, the elderly, and their families. We offer dedicated pastoral care through home visits and the regular administration of Holy Communion to those in care settings or their own homes. These arrangements can be made through the parish office to ensure spiritual support and connection for all our parishioners.