Jesus was concerned not only about people’s spiritual health but also their physical health. By healing people’s bodies as well as their souls, Jesus showed that the entire human body is touched by God’s salvation. The Gospel of Mark (see 6:13) makes it clear that Jesus shared his healing ministry with his apostles. James 5: 14-15 tells us of the early church’s ministry to the sick including anointing with oil, prayer and forgiveness of sins. The priest prays for the individual while touching him/her which symbolizes and confers the giving of the special grace of the Holy Spirit. As the individual is being anointed with oil it is absorbed into the skin, so does the Holy Spirit “enter” the person; claiming, empowering, enlivening and rejuvenating in the name of Jesus.

The Rite of Anointing today is much the same as in the early church. It is important to note that this sacrament is encouraged for all who are afflicted in some way by a health issue. Should you need to avail yourself of the sacrament of Anointing of the Sick there are many opportunities to do so. Contact Espiritu Santo’s Pastoral Care Ministry for additional information. In the case of an emergency or imminent death requiring last rites, please call the Parish Office at 727.726.8477. After regular business hours call the main phone number and follow the prompts. Our priests are on call at all times.