What is the Anointing of the Sick?
The short answer
The Anointing of the Sick is the sacrament for those seriously ill, facing surgery, or weakened by old age. A priest anoints the forehead and hands with blessed oil and prays for healing and strength. It is not only for the dying — it can be received whenever serious illness begins.
Rooted in Scripture
"Is anyone among you sick? He should summon the presbyters of the church, and they should pray over him and anoint [him] with oil in the name of the Lord, and the prayer of faith will save the sick person… If he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven" (James 5:14-15). The apostles also "anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them" (Mark 6:13).
Not just "last rites"
For centuries this sacrament was given almost only at the moment of death and called "Extreme Unction." The Second Vatican Council restored its original purpose: it is for anyone beginning to be in danger from sickness or old age (CCC 1514). It can be repeated if the illness worsens or a new serious illness arises.
What it gives
- strength, peace and courage to bear suffering;
- union with the passion of Christ;
- forgiveness of sins, if the person cannot confess;
- physical healing, if God wills it;
- preparation for passing to eternal life (CCC 1520).
The "last rites"
When someone is dying, a priest ideally offers three sacraments: Confession, Anointing, and Viaticum — Holy Communion as "food for the journey" (CCC 1525). Viaticum is the true sacrament of the dying.
How to request it
Call the parish office or hospital chaplain. Do not wait until the last moment; it is far better received while the person is conscious and able to pray.