Anointing of the Sick

What Is Anointing of the Sick?

Anointing of the Sick is the Sacrament through which Christ gives grace, strength, peace, and spiritual healing to those who are seriously ill, elderly, or facing grave weakness.

Through this Sacrament, the Church entrusts the sick person to the suffering and glorified Lord.

It is not only for the final moments of life. It is a Sacrament of healing, mercy, and hope.

“Is any man sick among you? Let him bring in the priests of the church.” — James 5:14

Biblical Foundations

Sacred Scripture shows Christ’s compassion for the sick.

Jesus healed the suffering, comforted the afflicted, and revealed God’s mercy through His care for the weak.

The Apostles continued this ministry of healing in the Church.

“And they anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them.” — Mark 6:13

“And let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.” — James 5:14

Who Can Receive This Sacrament?

Anointing of the Sick may be received by Catholics who are seriously ill, weakened by old age, preparing for serious surgery, or facing a serious decline in health.

It may also be received again if the illness worsens or if a new serious illness occurs.

The Sacrament is not limited to those who are actively dying.

What Happens in Anointing of the Sick?

A priest prays over the sick person and anoints them with blessed oil.

Through this Sacrament, Christ gives grace for the particular suffering the person is enduring.

The Sacrament may bring:

• Strength in suffering.
• Peace of soul.
• Union with the Passion of Christ.
• Forgiveness of sins, if the person is unable to confess.
• Spiritual healing.
• Physical healing, if it is God’s will.
• Preparation for eternal life when death is near.

Why Oil Is Used

Oil has long been a sign of healing, strengthening, and consecration.

In Anointing of the Sick, blessed oil is used as a visible sign of the grace Christ gives.

The oil does not heal by magic. Christ Himself acts through the Sacrament.

Anointing and Confession

When possible, a sick person should also receive the Sacrament of Confession.

Confession forgives sins and restores the soul to grace.

If the person is unable to confess, Anointing of the Sick can bring forgiveness of sins when the person has at least implicit repentance.

Anointing and Holy Communion

When death is near, the Church also desires the sick person to receive Holy Communion as Viaticum, meaning food for the journey.

Viaticum strengthens the soul for the final passage from this life to the Father.

Together, Confession, Anointing of the Sick, and Viaticum form the Church’s special care for those nearing death.

Union With Christ’s Suffering

Suffering is difficult and often mysterious.

The Christian does not suffer alone.

Through Anointing of the Sick, Christ draws near to the suffering person and unites their suffering to His own Passion.

This gives suffering spiritual meaning and opens the soul to grace, patience, and hope.

Common Misunderstandings

It Is Not Only for the Moment of Death

Anointing of the Sick is for serious illness, grave weakness, old age, and preparation for death.

It Is Not a Sign That Death Is Certain

Receiving this Sacrament does not mean a person is about to die. It is a gift of grace and strength.

It Is Not Magic

The Sacrament truly gives grace, but physical healing occurs according to God’s will.

It Should Not Be Delayed Too Long

Families should contact a priest when serious illness begins, not only at the last possible moment.

Key Truths About Anointing of the Sick

• Anointing of the Sick is one of the seven Sacraments.
• It is intended for those seriously ill, elderly, or gravely weakened.
• The priest anoints the sick person with blessed oil.
• Christ gives grace, peace, strength, and spiritual healing.
• The Sacrament may forgive sins if the person cannot confess.
• It unites the sick person more closely to Christ’s Passion.
• It may bring physical healing if God wills it.
• When death is near, Holy Communion as Viaticum is especially important.

What Does This Mean For Me?

Illness and suffering can make us feel afraid, weak, or alone.

Anointing of the Sick reminds us that Christ comes close to His suffering people.

He strengthens the sick, forgives sins, gives peace, and prepares souls for healing, perseverance, or eternal life.

This Sacrament is a gift of mercy and hope.

Explore the Sacraments

Continue Learning

Now that you understand Anointing of the Sick, the next topic is: Sacramentals

Learn about sacred signs instituted by the Church that prepare us to receive grace and sanctify daily life.