A sacrament conferring strength, healing graces, and forgiveness of sins to those suffering from serious illness or the frailty of old age.
Strength and Healing in Time of Illness
The Anointing of the Sick brings the healing presence of Christ to those who are suffering from illness or the effects of aging. Through the prayer of the priest and the anointing with blessed oil, the sick person is united with the sufferings of Christ, finding strength, peace, and courage in their trial. This sacrament can bring physical healing when it is God’s will, but always provides spiritual healing, restoring hope and trust in God’s loving plan. It also prepares the soul for the journey to eternal life, forgiving sins and alleviating anxiety.
Scripture: “Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord” (James 5:14)
Catechism Reference: CCC 1510-1511: … The Church believes and confesses that among the seven sacraments there is one especially intended to strengthen those who are being tried by illness, the Anointing of the Sick:This sacred anointing of the sick was instituted by Christ our Lord as a true and proper sacrament of the New Testament. It is alluded to indeed by Mark, but is recommended to the faithful and promulgated by James the apostle and brother of the Lord.