Anointing of the sick

A time of sickness can be an opportunity for Catholics to recall God's presence and to celebrate God's healing in their lives. This sacrament reminds us of our need for spiritual and physical healing.

"By the sacred anointing of the sick and the prayer of the priests the whole Church commends those who are ill to the suffering and glorified Lord, that he may raise them up and save them.  And indeed she exhorts them to contribute to the good of the People of God by freely uniting themselves to the Passion and death of Christ."

~Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1499

Anointing of the sick consists of prayers, a laying on of hands by a priest, and an anointing with the holy oil of the sick. The rite may include private confession, and holy Communion may be given to the sick person if he or she is able to receive.

According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, "only priests (bishops and presbyters) are ministers of the Anointing of the Sick" (CCC 1516).

Baptized members of the Christian faithful who have reached the age of reason and who begin to be in danger due to sickness or old age may receive the sacrament of anointing. A non- Catholic can receive the anointing of the sick, in special circumstances. Read more from Simply Catholic regarding the circumstances around who and how one can receive this sacrament.

The sacrament is intended not only for those in their last moments of life but also for the seriously sick and the aged or others who are in danger of death. It should be sought before any worse condition or deterioration of health sets in. Through the holy anointing of blessed oils, the power of the Holy Spirit is meant to lead the sick person to the healing of the soul but also the body, if it is God's will.

Yes. If someone receives the sacrament and their condition worsens, they can receive it again. Also, if someone receives the sacrament and improves but later becomes seriously ill again, they can receive it again.

Last rites includes three sacraments — confession, anointing of the sick and holy Communion — that a person receives when nearing death. Anointing of the sick is the sacrament offered to persons who are struggling with illness but not necessarily near death, provided that the illness is serious. Anointing of the sick is focused on healing and the restoration of health.

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