Anointing of the Sick
Christ walks with us in times of illness, suffering, and weakness. Through the Anointing of the Sick, He offers healing, comfort, strength, and peace to those facing serious illness or the challenges of aging.
The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick
The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church. It is a sacrament of healing through which Christ offers His grace, strength, peace, and comfort to those who are seriously ill, elderly, or preparing for major surgery.
The sacrament is not only for those who are dying. While it was once commonly called “Last Rites,” the Church encourages Catholics to receive the Anointing of the Sick as soon as a serious illness or significant decline in health occurs.
Who Can Receive the Sacrament?
A baptized Catholic may receive the Anointing of the Sick if they:
- Are seriously ill due to physical or mental illness.
- Are preparing for a serious surgery because of illness.
- Are experiencing the frailty of old age.
- Have a chronic or worsening illness.
- Are in danger of death.
The sacrament may be received more than once if a person’s condition worsens or if they develop another serious illness.
What Happens During the Sacrament?
A priest:
- Offers prayers for healing and God’s mercy.
- Lays his hands on the person’s head.
- Anoints the forehead and hands with the Oil of the Sick, which has been blessed by the bishop during the annual Chrism Mass.
- Prays: “Through this holy anointing may the Lord in his love and mercy help you with the grace of the Holy Spirit.”
Often, if the person is able, the sacrament is preceded by Confession and followed by Holy Communion. When Communion is received by someone nearing death, it is called Viaticum, meaning “food for the journey.”
The Effects of the Sacrament
The Anointing of the Sick:
- Gives strength, peace, and courage to endure illness.
- Unites the person’s suffering with the suffering of Christ.
- Brings spiritual healing and the forgiveness of sins if the person is unable to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
- May, if it is God’s will, bring physical healing.
- Prepares the person for eternal life if death is near.
What the Catechism Teaches
The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches:
“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.” (CCC 1499)
A Prayer for the Sick
Lord Jesus, Divine Physician,
You came to bring healing to body and soul.
Bless all who are sick, suffering, or burdened by illness.
Grant them strength, peace, and hope through the grace of the Holy Spirit.
Help them to trust in Your loving care and unite their sufferings with Your Cross.
May Your healing presence bring comfort to them and to those who care for them.
We ask this in Your holy name. Amen.
The Anointing of the Sick reminds us that Christ is always present with those who suffer. Through this sacrament, He offers healing, forgiveness, hope, and the assurance that we are never alone in times of illness or weakness.
To receive the Anointing of the Sick or request the Sacrament for a loved one, please contact Christina by email at parishoffice@stmikes.us or by calling 989-967-3520.