Anointing
Sacraments – Anointing of the Sick
This sacrament is bestowed upon those who are seriously ill or suffering, which then unites them with Christ’s passion.
“Is any among you sick? Let him call for the presbyters of the Church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith will save the sick man, and the Lord will raise him up; and if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven” ( James 5:14-15).
Jesus Christ was, and is still, moved by the suffering in the world. His healing is a radical healing which may also include physical healing. By his passion and death on the cross he gave a new meaning to suffering, seen as a consequence of what is known as “original sin” (CCC 1521). We are invited to share with him in his redemptive Passion and be led through his resurrection to life with God, both now and forever.
The sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is given to those who are seriously ill or old by anointing them on the forehead and hands with duly blessed oil: “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.” (CCC 1513)
The special grace of the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick (CCC 1532):
– unites the sick person to the passion of Christ, for his own good and that of the whole Church;
– gives the sick person strength, peace, and courage to endure the sufferings of illness or old age;
– grants the forgiveness of sins;
– may restore health, if that is conducive to the salvation of the person´s soul;
– prepares for passing over to eternal life.