“Pain & suffering have come into your life, but remember pain, sorrow, suffering are but the kiss of Jesus - a sign that you have come so close to Him that He can kiss you.”
— Mother Teresa
Formerly known as "Last Rites" or "Extreme Unction", the Anointing of the Sick is one of the three repeatable Sacraments in the Catholic Church. The proper time for receiving this holy anointing has arrived when the believer begins to be in danger of death because of illness or old age. Each time a Christian falls seriously ill, they may receive the Anointing of the Sick, and after they have received it, if the illness worsens.
The belief that the Anointing of the Sick should be received only in the moments before death, is a misconception. The Sacrament is often received:
- Before surgery, or a serious medical procedure.
- During a long-term or terminal illness.
- Experiencing health issues related to old age.
The Anointing of the Sick is a prayer of healing, not only for our physical healing, but also for spiritual health, and for the strength, peace, and courage to bear the burden of illness.
As Catholics, we are asked to see our sufferings as a way of being united with the sufferings of Christ.
The Anointing of the Sick also imparts the forgiveness of sins and; therefore, can only be administered by a priest or bishop.
Concerning Sacraments and Prayers for the Sick:
Holy Communion: The Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, which He has commanded us to eat and drink for us to have His Life within us. Under the species of the Host (what looks like bread), this Sacrament can be brought to the ill, infirm, and housebound upon request. This may be done by the priest, or deacon, or lay extraordinary minister.
Viaticum: Holy Communion to the dying (Latin for “food for the journey”). Do not hesitate to call early enough so a loved one can receive.
Anointing of the Sick: By the smearing of a holy oil, a Sacrament for the forgiveness of sins, with a hope for the healing of the body, but also for the strengthening of the soul to face illness and suffering and possibly death. It can be repeated. Do not hesitate or wait to the last minute to arrange. Our priests are happy to come as swiftly as possible when the need arises— remember, they are ordained to serve God’s people in this way.
“The Last Rites”: Confession, Holy Communion, Anointing, Apostolic Pardon, and possibly Prayers of Commendation of the Soul. Call while the one needing these Sacraments and prayers can still partake of Holy Communion and verbalise a confession.
Apostolic Pardon: A special indulgence that priests can grant.
Commendation of the Soul: a set of prayers to help someone undergoing their last struggle by appealing repeatedly for the mercy of God and the intercession of the Saints, and for detachment from earthly things by recounting the Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ.
