Anointing of the Sick and the Dying
“The Anointing of the Sick is not a sacrament for those only who are at the point of death. Hence, as soon as anyone of the faithful begins to be in danger of death from sickness or old age, the fitting time to receive this sacrament has certainly already arrived.” -CCC, no.15514, citing SC, no. 73
What are the effects of the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick?
The special grace of the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick has as its effects:
The uniting of the sick person to the Passion of Christ, for his own good and that of the whole Church;
(giving the sick person the strength), peace, and courage to endure in a Christian manner the suffering of illness or old age;
(imparting) the forgiveness of sins, if the sick person was not able to obtain it through the sacrament of Penance;
(providing for) the restoration of health, if it is conducive to the salvation of his soul;
(helping the sick person in) the preparation for passing over to eternal life. (CCC, no. 1532)
Copyright © Irish Episcopal Conference 2014 Further reading: Chapter 19 (pp. 282– 293) Irish Catholic Catechism for Adults
This Sacrament is celebrated given to those who are seriously ill whether their illness is a physical, mental or spiritual condition.
Those who are elderly, about to undergo an operation or have an addiction may also be anointed and ask for the healing touch of Christ.
The Sacrament has two dimensions, healing and forgiveness. We pray for healing not only of the physical body but also for spiritual healing. The prayer for forgiveness adds to the spiritual healing and feeling of peacefulness.
If you or a loved one needs to receive this sacrament then please contact us.