Anointing

The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick

Having received from the Lord the charge to heal the sick, the Church strives to carry it out by taking care of the sick and accompanying them with her prayer of intercession. Above all, the Church possesses a sacrament specifically intended for the benefit of the sick. This sacrament was instituted by Christ and is attested by Saint James: (CCC 1506-1513, 1526-1527)

“Is anyone among you sick? Let him call in the presbyters of the Church and let them pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord.” (James 5:14-15)

Description

Who can receive the sacrament? – Any member of the faithful can receive this sacrament as soon as he or she begins to be in danger of death because of sickness or old age. The faithful who receive this sacrament can receive it several times if their illness becomes worse or another serious sickness afflicts them. The celebration of this sacrament should, if possible, be preceded by individual confession on the part of the sick person. ( CCC 1514-1515, 1528-1529)

Who can administer the sacrament? - This sacrament can be administered only by priests (bishops or presbyters). (CCC 1516-1530)

How is this sacrament celebrated? – The celebration of this sacrament consists essentially in an anointing with oil which may be blessed by the bishop. The anointing is on the forehead and on the hands of the sick person (in the Rome rite) or also on other parts of the body (in other rites) accompanied by the prayer of the priest who asks for the special grace of this sacrament. (CCC 1517-1519, 1530)

What are the effects of the sacrament? – This sacrament confers special grace which unites the sick person more intimately to the Passion of Christ for his good and for the good of all the Church. It gives comfort, peace, courage, and even foregiveness of sins if the sick person is not able to make a confession. Sometimes if it is the will of God, this sacrament even brings about the restoration of physical health. (CCC 1520-1523, 1532)

(Source – Compendium: Catechism of The Catholic Church)

At Blessed Sacrament

Anyone wishing to receive the anointing of the sick will need to contact the parish office at (402) 474-4249 to schedule a visit with one of our parish priests.