Sacrament
The Anointing of the Sick
Sacrament of Healing
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. The Anointing of the Sick is not a sacrament for those only who are at the point of death; the proper time to receive it has certainly already arrived when the believer begins to be in danger of death because of sickness or old age.
What the 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. The Anointing of the Sick is not a sacrament for those only who are at the point of death; the proper time to receive it has certainly already arrived when the believer begins to be in danger of death because of sickness or old age.
Institution
Christ's compassion toward the sick and his many healings constitute the foundation of this sacrament. The Letter of James commends the sick to call for the priests of the Church to pray over them and anoint them (James 5:14-15).
Matter and form
- Form
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.
- Matter
Oil blessed by the bishop (or, in case of necessity, by the priest who celebrates the sacrament).
Minister
Priests (bishops and presbyters) alone.
Recipient
The faithful whose health is seriously impaired by sickness or old age.
Effects
A particular gift of the Holy Spirit
The strengthening, peace, and courage to endure suffering
The forgiveness of sins, if the sick person was unable to obtain it through Reconciliation
The restoration of health, if it is conducive to the salvation of the soul
Preparation for passing over to eternal life
Preparation
See the parish RCIA / OCIA office or your pastor for catechetical preparation.
Catechism references
- CCC 1499-1532