The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is a sacrament of healing, strength, and peace given by Christ to those who are seriously ill, elderly, or facing major surgery. Through prayer and the anointing with holy oil, the Church entrusts the sick person to the healing mercy of God.
Jesus showed special love and compassion for the sick during His earthly ministry, and He continues that healing work through this sacrament.
“Is anyone among you sick? He should summon the presbyters of the Church, and they should pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord.”
— James 5:14–15
Who May Receive This Sacrament
The Anointing of the Sick may be received by:
- Those suffering from a serious illness
- The elderly, especially when health is declining
- Those preparing for major surgery
- Those whose condition has worsened after previously receiving the sacrament
This sacrament may be received more than once, especially if the illness progresses or a new serious illness arises.
The Grace of the Sacrament
Through the Anointing of the Sick, the person receives:
- Strength, peace, and courage to endure illness or suffering
- Union with the suffering of Christ
- Forgiveness of sins, if the person is unable to receive Confession
- Spiritual healing, and sometimes physical healing according to God’s will
- Preparation for passing into eternal life when received near death
Not Only for the Dying
The Anointing of the Sick is sometimes mistakenly called “Last Rites,” but it is not only for those at the point of death. The Church encourages the faithful to receive this sacrament earlier in serious illness, when its grace can bring comfort and strength.
When death is near, the Church offers the Anointing of the Sick together with Confession and Holy Communion (Viaticum) as spiritual support for the final journey.
The Care of the Sick
The Church continues Christ’s healing mission by praying for the sick and supporting them with compassion and care. Families are encouraged to contact the parish as soon as illness becomes serious, so that the sacrament may be celebrated in a timely and prayerful manner.
“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.”
— Matthew 11:28