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Anointing of the Sick
What is Anointing of the Sick?
Anointing of the Sick is the sacrament through which the Church prays for and anoints those who are seriously ill, suffering, or nearing death, asking for God’s healing, strength, and forgiveness. It is rooted in Scripture, particularly in James 5:14–15: “Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well.” Instituted by Jesus and practiced by the apostles, the sacrament was formalized by the Church to provide spiritual and sometimes physical support to those in need.
Historically called Extreme Unction (or “Last Rites” when given at the point of death), the sacrament’s name was changed after Vatican II to emphasize its broader purpose of healing and strengthening, not just preparation for death.
Theological Significance
Anointing of the Sick holds profound spiritual meaning in Catholicism:
- Spiritual Healing: The sacrament imparts grace to strengthen the sick or dying, helping them bear suffering with faith and uniting their pain with Christ’s Passion.
- Forgiveness of Sins: If the recipient is unable to confess (e.g., due to unconsciousness), the sacrament forgives sins, including mortal sins, provided they have contrition (sorrow for sin). It complements Reconciliation.
- Physical Healing: When it aligns with God’s will, the sacrament may lead to physical healing or relief from suffering, though its primary focus is spiritual.
- Preparation for Eternal Life: For those near death, it prepares the soul for the journey to God, offering peace and hope.
- Union with Christ’s Suffering: The sacrament helps the sick offer their suffering as a participation in Christ’s redemptive work, fostering spiritual growth.
Who Can Receive Anointing of the Sick?
- Baptized Catholics: The sacrament is for Catholics who have reached the age of reason (typically 7) and are facing serious illness, surgery, or the frailty of old age.
- Conditions for Reception:
- Serious illness (e.g., cancer, heart disease, or severe injury).
- Significant health risks (e.g., before major surgery).
- Advanced age with increasing weakness.
- Danger of death (though not required).
- Frequency: The sacrament can be received multiple times if the condition worsens or a new serious illness arises. It’s not limited to those dying.
- State of Grace: Ideally, the recipient should be in a state of grace, often receiving Reconciliation first if possible, but the sacrament itself can forgive sins if needed.
The Rite of Anointing of the Sick
The sacrament is administered by a priest, often in a church, hospital, home, or other setting, depending on the recipient’s condition. It can be individual or communal (e.g., during a parish healing Mass).
1. Essential Elements
- Matter: The anointing with the Oil of the Sick (blessed by a bishop, typically at the Chrism Mass) on the forehead and hands.
- Form: The prayer of the priest: “Through this holy anointing may the Lord in his love and mercy help you with the grace of the Holy Spirit. May the Lord who frees you from sin save you and raise you up.”
- Minister: Only an ordained priest (or bishop) can administer the sacrament, as they have the authority to anoint and absolve.
2. Structure of the Rite
The rite, as outlined in the Pastoral Care of the Sick, includes:
- Introductory Rites: The priest greets the sick person and family, often with a prayer or sprinkling of holy water to recall Baptism.
- Liturgy of the Word: Brief Scripture readings (e.g., James 5:14–15) and a short homily or reflection on God’s mercy and healing.
- Litany or Prayer: Prayers for the sick person’s strength, healing, and forgiveness, often involving the community present.
- Laying on of Hands: The priest lays hands on the recipient’s head, invoking the Holy Spirit’s grace.
- Anointing: The priest anoints the forehead and hands with the Oil of the Sick, saying the prescribed words.
- Prayer After Anointing: Additional prayers for healing and salvation.
- Optional Sacraments: If appropriate, the priest may offer Reconciliation and/or the Eucharist (Viaticum if near death).
- Dismissal: A blessing for the sick person and those present.
3. Communal Anointing
In parishes, communal anointing may occur during special Masses (e.g., World Day of the Sick on February 11), where the elderly and seriously ill receive the sacrament together, often with prayers like the Divine Mercy Chaplet.
Symbols and Their Meanings
The sacrament is rich in symbolism:
- Oil of the Sick: Represents healing and strengthening, recalling the Good Samaritan’s care (Luke 10:34) and Christ’s healing ministry.
- Laying on of Hands: Symbolizes the invocation of the Holy Spirit and the Church’s prayerful support.
- Prayer of Faith: Reflects the community’s trust in God’s mercy, as in James 5:15.
- Sign of the Cross: Often used during anointing, it invokes Christ’s redemptive sacrifice.
