Christ’s care in times of illness
Serious illness can bring uncertainty, weariness, and fear. Through the Anointing of the Sick, Christ draws near with the grace of His sacrament and the prayer of His Church.
If you or someone you love is seriously ill, please contact us. You do not have to wait until the final moments of life to ask for a priest.
Arrange Anointing of the Sick
To request the sacrament, call the St. Francis Xavier parish office. The office will help arrange a time for Father Jeff to visit and celebrate the Anointing of the Sick.
Parish office: (918) 775-6217
Urgent sacramental requests: 24-hour contact
If someone is critically ill, hospitalized with an urgent need for a priest, or approaching the end of life, call or text the parish office manager at any time, day or night. Do not wait for regular office hours.
24-hour call or text: (405) 219-0177
Please provide the person’s name, their location, the hospital and room number if applicable, your callback number, and whether the need is urgent. The office manager will help coordinate contact with Father Jeff.
Call the office manager Text the office manager
This number is for parish and sacramental assistance. For an immediate medical emergency, call 911.
Who should receive this sacrament?
The Anointing of the Sick is for Catholics whose health is seriously threatened by illness or the frailty of old age. It is not reserved only for those who are actively dying.
If you are facing a serious illness, a worsening condition, or surgery because of a serious illness, contact the parish to discuss receiving the sacrament. If you are unsure whether anointing is appropriate, Father Jeff can help you discern that.
When possible, make arrangements early so the person can participate in the prayers and receive the sacrament with their loved ones present.
What happens during anointing?
The priest prays with the sick person, lays hands on them, and anoints them with the blessed Oil of the Sick. The celebration may also include Confession and Holy Communion, according to the person’s circumstances.
Family members and caregivers may join in the prayers. The parish can help you prepare for the visit.
What grace does the sacrament bring?
The sacrament offers spiritual strength, peace, and courage in the midst of illness. It unites the sick person more closely with Christ and entrusts them to His healing mercy.
It is not a promise of physical recovery. It is an assurance that the sick person is accompanied by Christ and His Church.
Can someone receive anointing more than once?
Yes. A person may receive the sacrament again if they recover and later develop another serious illness, or if their condition becomes more serious. Contact the parish for guidance.
Support for families and caregivers
Caring for someone who is ill can be demanding and deeply personal. We encourage families and caregivers to reach out for prayer and pastoral support as well.
You do not have to carry this time of illness alone. Please let the parish know how we can help.
Learn more about the Anointing of the Sick in the Catechism of the Catholic Church.