Anointing of the Sick - How Sick?

[Joannm]

I was initially hesitant when I approached my PV about annointing me last Tuesday. As I indicated in my initial post, I suffer from migraines and this bout has been the most severe of the lot (including tingling in my fingers). He was very supportive and annointed me right away.

Yes, I go to confession at least once a month, if not sooner. I’m not one to shy away from that sacrament at all. However, I was reticent about approaching my PV because I didn’t think that my ailment qualified me as worthy of receiving the annointing of the sick.

But, the deacon (hospital staff member) explained to me that migraines are pretty serious stuff (espcially wiht the tingling) and, along with a re-visit to the doctor, he and my PV believe that it was appropriate for me to receive the Sacrament at that time.

I think in cases like that it is good to seek the advice of a priest. About 10 years ago I was suffering from what I considered depression over a separation from my husband. I asked my confessor to anoint me and he said no, but we talked about my situation at length.

Three years ago I was diagnosed as severly anemic and was even sent to an oncologist to look for any signs of cancer. This same priest suggested I get anointed, but this time I said no. I told him I wasn’t that sick (I didn’t appear sick except for being tired). It ended up my anemia was caused by a significant weight loss (they don’t tell you about iron loss in WW) and the fact that I had not hit menopause despite my age. Anyway he didn’t push my getting anointed, just asked and offered.

 

[peary]

I think in cases like that it is good to seek the advice of a priest. About 10 years ago I was suffering from what I considered depression over a separation from my husband. I asked my confessor to anoint me and he said no, but we talked about my situation at length.

Three years ago I was diagnosed as severly anemic and was even sent to an oncologist to look for any signs of cancer. This same priest suggested I get anointed, but this time I said no. I told him I wasn’t that sick (I didn’t appear sick except for being tired). It ended up my anemia was caused by a significant weight loss (they don’t tell you about iron loss in WW) and the fact that I had not hit menopause despite my age. Anyway he didn’t push my getting anointed, just asked and offered.

I know some priests who have offered the sacrament to those suffering from depression and other mental maladies. I guess it’s really up to the individual priest.

 

[kristie_m]

I know some priests who have offered the sacrament to those suffering from depression and other mental maladies. I guess it’s really up to the individual priest.

I should think that someone who suffers from depression would NEED the sacrament.

 

[Andruschak]

I know some priests who have offered the sacrament to those suffering from depression and other mental maladies. I guess it’s really up to the individual priest.

Excuse me, but depression and other mental problems are real diseases, causing chronic problems, which need all the help a sufferer can get. Congratulations to any Priest who understands this and annoints the mentally sick.

Such as me…alcoholism and depression. I take antabuse and effexor, and still feel the need for the sacrament. Again, trust me on this, we alcoholics and depressives need all the help we can get, including extra graces from God.

 

[peary]

Excuse me, but depression and other mental problems are real diseases, causing chronic problems, which need all the help a sufferer can get. Congratulations to any Priest who understands this and annoints the mentally sick.

Such as me…alcoholism and depression. I take antabuse and effexor, and still feel the need for the sacrament. Again, trust me on this, we alcoholics and depressives need all the help we can get, including extra graces from God.

Andru - my post was in response to a previous poster who said that his/her parish priest wouldn’t give the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick because of depression. I am totally in agreement with you on the need, and I personally do not think that it ought to be kept away from anyone who is suffering either physically, mentally or spiritually. In fact, that is what the sacrament is there for.

 

[Joannm]

Andru - my post was in response to a previous poster who said that his/her parish priest wouldn’t give the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick because of depression. I am totally in agreement with you on the need, and I personally do not think that it ought to be kept away from anyone who is suffering either physically, mentally or spiritually. In fact, that is what the sacrament is there for.

The reason why the priest would not give me the anointing is because he realised that what I considered depression was just a major “pity party.” He knows me very well and what I needed was a good talking to. It wasn’t clinical depression, I was just feeling sorry for myself, something he won’t alllow me to do. I think he was right.