Anointing of the Sick
The Anointing of the Sick is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church. It is a sacrament of healing and is administered to those who are seriously ill or weakened by old age. The following are key aspects of this sacrament.
Purpose: The primary purpose of the Anointing of the Sick is to provide spiritual and sometimes physical healing to the person receiving it. It offers:
- Strength, peace, and courage to endure suffering.
- Union with the sufferings of Christ.
- Forgiveness of sins, if the person is unable to confess.
- Preparation for passing into eternal life, if death is near.
- Administration: The sacrament is administered by a priest who anoints the sick person with holy oil, usually on the forehead and hands, while reciting specific prayers.
- Recipients: It is given to any baptized Catholic who is in danger of death due to illness or old age. It can be received more than once if the person's condition worsens or if they recover and then become seriously ill again.
- Effects: The special grace of this sacrament:
- Unites the sick person to the passion of Christ.
- Provides strength, peace, and courage to endure illness.
- May restore physical health if it is God's will.
- Prepares the person for their final journey to God.
- Historical Context: In the past, this sacrament was often referred to as "Extreme Unction" and was typically only given to those near death. However, its understanding and practice have evolved, and it is now seen as a sacrament for anyone facing serious illness.
This sacrament is to give spiritual aid and comfort and perfect spiritual health, including, if need be, the remission of sins, and also, conditionally, to restore bodily health. To set up a time to receive this blessing call 315-598-2118 and speak to Father Scardella.