Overview
In Anointing of the Sick, Christ draws close to those who are seriously ill, frail, preparing for surgery, or near death. The Church prays for strength, forgiveness, peace, and hope.
- A gift of grace
- Christ draws close to the sick and suffering, giving peace, courage, forgiveness, and spiritual strength.
- A call to grow
- The sacrament is not only for the final hours of life. It may be repeated after recovery if another grave illness occurs, or if the same illness becomes more serious.
Details
From apostolic times, those who ministered to the Christian community were urged to lay their hands on the sick and anoint them. The purpose of anointing is to bring healing, most often spiritual, and on occasion, if God so desires, physical as well. Healing is not the same as curing; this sacrament brings peace, courage, and the closeness of Christ in illness.
Don't wait for a crisis
Anointing is not reserved only for the point of death. The fitting time is when a person begins to be in danger because of grave illness or old age, and it is fitting before a serious operation. If the person recovers and later faces another grave illness, the sacrament may be received again; it may also be repeated if the same illness becomes more serious. It is best requested early enough for the person to take part in the prayers when possible.
About the 'Last Rites'
What people often call the Last Rites is not the same thing as Anointing of the Sick. The Church's proper celebration for someone close to death is Viaticum, a final reception of the Body and Blood of Christ, which may be brought by a priest, deacon, or trained layperson. When Viaticum is celebrated together with anointing, the combination is what most people mean by Last Rites.
When you call for someone who is gravely ill, simply describe the situation: we will help determine whether your loved one needs anointing, confession, Viaticum, or all three, and we can connect you with the hospital chaplain when needed. Please call as early as possible so the celebration can be peaceful and unhurried.
Who it is for
Anyone in danger because of serious illness or the frailty of age, including before a serious operation. It is not necessary to wait until the point of death.
What to prepare
Call the parish office to arrange an anointing at church, at home, or in hospital. In an emergency, call any time.
- Name and location of the person who is sick
- Hospital, care home, or home address
- Whether the situation is urgent
- Whether confession or Holy Communion may also be needed
Call early when possible. In danger of death, call the emergency line right away.