The laying on of hands and anointing is offered as part of two weekday worship services at St. John’s, at 10 a.m. Tuesdays and 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays. This is also part of the ministry to persons who are in the hospital and in nursing care.

From The Book of Common Prayer, it begins:
Savior of the World, by your cross and precious blood you have redeemed us;
Save us and help us, we humbly beseech you, O Lord.

The Priest then lays hands upon the person, and says the following:
I lay my hands upon you and anoint you with oil in the Name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, beseeching him to uphold you and fill you with his grace, that you may know the healing power of his love. Amen.

The priest may add:
As you are outwardly anointed with this holy oil, so may our heavenly Father grant you the inward anointing of the Holy Spirit. Of his great mercy, may he forgive you of your sins, release you from suffering, and restore you to wholeness and strength. May he deliver you from all evil, preserve you in all goodness, and bring you to everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayers for the Sick

A prayer for morning, for use by one who is sick – This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

A prayer for strength and confidence, for one who is sick – Heavenly Father, giver of life and health:  Comfort and relieve your sick servant Name, and give your power of healing to those who minister to his/her needs, that he/she may be strengthened in his/her weakness and have confidence in your loving care; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

You will find other prayers for the sick beginning on page 458 in The Book of Common Prayer.