Today is February 11th, World Day for the Sick. Here are some frequently-asked questions about one of the two Sacraments of Healing: the Anointing of the Sick.
Do you know what is the other Sacrament of Healing? It is mentioned at the end of this article.
What Catholics believe about the Anointing of the Sick:
Catholics believe that a time of sickness can be a time to recall God’s presence and to celebrate God’s healing in their lives. The rites of the Church serve to remind us of God’s presence and our dependence upon God. The Anointing of the Sick helps us to remember our need for spiritual and physical healing.
Is it still called the “Last Rites”?
The renewed rites of the Church call this sacrament the Anointing of the Sick. It is no longer called “extreme unction” or “the last anointing.” This reflects the Church’s belief that this sacrament is for any person who is seriously sick or infirm. This sacrament can be celebrated several times in a person’s lifetime, whenever a sickness or advanced age causes a person to be concerned for their spiritual welfare. In cases where the person is truly at the point of death, the complete Rite for the Dying, including Viaticum and the Apostolic Pardon along with the Anointing, may be included.
Who should celebrate the Anointing of the Sick?
Any Catholic who is seriously ill, advanced in age, or who feels the need for the comforting presence of the Church’s sacramental prayer life may be Anointed. This sacrament may be repeated if an illness progresses, or if new illnesses develop.
What does the Rite for the Anointing of the Sick look like?
It is really quite simple. The Anointing of the Sick consists of prayers, the laying on of hands upon the person's forehead by a priest, and an anointing with the holy Oil of the Sick on the forehead and the palms of the hands (this may be altered slightly, depending on circumstances) while saying the sacramental words for Anointing. The rite may include private Confession and Holy Communion may be given to the sick person if he/she is able to receive.
Can family members be present for the anointing?
Yes, definitely. All sacraments of the Church are, by nature, communal acts. The Church encourages family members and other members of the Church to be present for the celebration.
Can we anoint someone who is already dead?
No, we cannot offer the sacrament to someone who is clearly dead. Sacraments are for the living; those who have died we commend to God's loving mercy. We do, however, want to help console any family members who are present at the death of a loved one. Priests, deacons or lay ministers can be called to assist with the consolation of family members. The Church has some fine prayers and her tradition of pastoral care to offer for the living family members at such a time.
How do I arrange to celebrate the Anointing of the Sick?
To arrange for a priest to celebrate the Anointing of the Sick, simply call the parish office. If possible, arrange to celebrate the Anointing at a time when family members can be present. Before or after the Anointing, the sacrament of Confession - the other Sacrament of Healing - can be made available to those present.
For more information on the sacrament, please follow these links:
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.