Catechism series - Annointing of the Sick

There are times when people are struck with illness. Illness can become an inconvenience and a cause of problems. This is a reality we have to confront. In illness, man experiences his powerlessness, his limitations and his finitude. Every illness makes us glimpse death. (CCC 1500)

Today, we will talk (briefly) about the Sacrament of Annointing of the sick. This sacrament is normally administered to the sick to bring spiritual strength back. Back in the day, for what we know, this sacrament was only administered to people who are near death. Actually, it's quite the opposite. The sacrament does not have to be administered if the person is near death. Anyone, meaning the faithful, who is in danger of death or someone in old age can receive the sacrament. Read CCC 1514. The person doesn't have to be near death, meaning it is possible for that person to regain his health. And in the event that he encounters illness, he can again receive the sacrament.

Only a priest (bishops included) can administer the sacrament. The sacrament is normally celebrated in hospitals, or homes or in the church. It can be administered to a single person or a group of sick people. The priest lays hands on the sick, pray over them and annoint them with Holy oil (CCC 1519).

CCC 1520 - 1523 describes the effects of the sacrament. We are gifted by the Holy Spirit with strength to fight temptations. It is meant to lead us to heal our soul. Our sins are also forgiven. Furthermore, we are united with Christ through suffering and contribute to the community of the Church. This sacrament also prepares the dying for the final journey. It closes what began in Baptism.

Sacrament of the Annointing of the Sick

• Also called Last Rites.
• You don't have to be dying to receive it.
• Receiving it prepares us for the final journey. It also forgives all sin.
• Visible sign: Laying of hands and Holy oil