Anointing of the Sick

'Are any among you sick? They should call for the elders of the church and have them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord.' (James 5:14) 

You may know of this sacrament by its old name, 'Last Rites.' It is now called the Anointing of the Sick which is a much better description of what the sacrament is and for whom it is intended. The old name conjures up images of a person about to die, whereas the new name evokes feelings of healing, comfort, and strength.

Anyone who becomes seriously ill may receive the sacrament. The illness need not be immediately life-threatening. If you or a loved one are about to undergo surgery, are about to begin a treatment regime, or are being hospitalized for testing, it is the opportune time to request the sacrament. The sacrament may be administered anywhere at any time. An excellent time might be just before or after attending Mass. Or, perhaps it might be appropriate to receive the sacrament at home with family in a comforting and relaxing setting. Receiving the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick as a part of the healing process can bring much-needed strength and peace to the sick person and to their family and friends.

The sacrament should definitely be administered in a sudden emergency, an accident or a sudden condition. 

Please don’t wait until the last minute out of fear of the old name 'Last Rites.'

The sacrament may be repeated as often as desired. It is, however, only necessary to receive it once.

If a person has died, the Anointing of the Sick is not administered. However, the priest, if called, will pray with the family for the repose of the soul of their loved one. 

Asking for the sacrament of the sick is also a good opportunity to celebrate the other "healing sacrament"-the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

There is a form of the Anointing of the Sick which can be very comforting if the sick person is prepared for it. It is called Viaticum and it is administered when one is close to death but still aware. Viaticum is a rite in which the sick person receives the anointing of the sick AND Holy Communion for the last time. This form of the sacrament seems very close to the old name of 'Last Rites' but is not received out of fear but of a joyful reception of the Body of Christ to prepare for meeting Him face to face.