The Anointing of the Sick is one of the Seven Sacraments, which are the physical signs of God’s Grace in the world. It is also known as Last Rites or Extreme Unction, which means “final anointing”. It is typically given to people who are facing death, serious physical decline due to illness, or are preparing for surgery. The priest anoints the forehead and hands with sacred oil, and he prays the prayers of the rite over the individual. The grace given through this sacrament strengthens the soul and prepares the person for life in eternity. If he or she can receive confession and communion then all three are given together as Holy Viaticum. If confession is not possible, the Anointing of the Sick can forgive sins. Also, in some cases, God may even grant physical healing through this sacrament.
“James 5:14–15 “”Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders 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.”” This is the clearest scriptural basis for the sacrament.
Mark 6:12–13 “”They went out and preached that men should repent. And they cast out many demons and anointed with oil many that were sick and healed them.”” Shows the apostles using oil and prayer for healing.
Matthew 8:16–17 “”He took our infirmities and bore our diseases.”” Connect suffering with physical and spiritual healing.
Luke 10:9 “”Heal the sick in it and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’”” Healing is part of the proclamation of the Kingdom.
Matthew 9:2–6 Jesus forgives sins and heals the paralytic, showing the link between spiritual and physical healing.
Baltimore Catechism: Lessons 24 and 25″
Illustration by: Colton Rompala