The Anointing of the Sick was first written about by the Apostle St James in his Letter, (James 5.14-15). Following his instructions, the sacrament consists in two actions, the laying on of hands, and the anointing of the person (usually their forehead and hands) with holy oil, by a priest. The Church teaches that as part of the healing which is brought about in this sacrament, the sick person is freed from sin.

Anointing used to be associated just with the end of life, and was often referred to as “the Last Rites”. However, you do not have to be at the point of death to be anointed. At any point, when facing severe or protracted illness of any kind, you can request this ministry.

Holy Communion at Home
Holy Communion is always available even for those who cannot attend church because of illness. If this applies to you or someone you know, get in touch with us. The Parish Priest, or a member of All Saints', will be happy to arrange a visit and bring Holy Communion to you.

If you are sick or you know someone who is, and you or they would like to receive Anointing and Holy Communion, please contact the Parish Office.

"Last Rites"
If a person you care for is approaching the end of their life, you can request a visit from the Parish Priest (or another priest) to bring them Holy Communion and Anointing. During this visit, the priest will also offer to hear the confession of the sick person and bring God's forgiveness to them. It is important that you contact the Parish Priest as soon as possible. If your loved ones are in hospital, please contact the Hospital Chaplaincy Team in the first instance.
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Available clergy:
Father Diego - 01582 939217
Father Yenda (Vicar of St Mary's, Sundon) - 01582 583076

'Are any among you sick? They should call for the elders of the church and have them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord. The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise them up; and anyone who has committed sins will be forgiven.'
- James 5:14-15

The oil used in administering the Anointing of the Sick is pure olive oil and it is called Oil of the Sick. It is one of the three Holy oils blessed by the bishop of St Albans on Maundy Thursday at the Chrism Mass.