Anointing of the Sick

Abstract The Anointing of the Sick (called “Extreme Unction” prior to the Second Vatican Council) is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church. It serves a prominent role in the administration of the so‐called “Last Rites” (along with confession of sins, if deemed appropriate, and Viaticum, the reception of Holy Communion for the heavenward journey). Despite the terms “Extreme Unction” and “Last Rites,” the Anointing of the Sick is not restricted to those in immediate danger of dying from disease or traumatic injury. Although such people might be the typical recipients of this sacrament, the elderly whose death is more remote, as well as anyone facing serious surgery, can also receive it. This sacrament is conferred through anointing with oil on the forehead and hands, together with a special prayer for deliverance. Because it functions as a kind of medicine for the soul, its main purpose is to remedy spiritual weaknesses resulting from the spiritual sickness of sin. Nevertheless, like the sacrament of Penance, it can remove the guilt of sin under the proper conditions. Other interior gifts bestowed include inner peace, courage amidst the trials of old age and illness, and fortification against temptations to disheartenment. This sacrament restores bodily health only to the extent conducive for eternal salvation; however, this effect would occur, not in a direct and miraculous manner, but merely indirectly, by aiding natural causes (a repercussion on the body of the soul's revitalization).