08/08/2026
The purpose of the SAKRAMENT OF THE SICK (the Anointing) is to confer special spiritual, psychological, and sometimes physical grace to a baptized Catholic facing serious illness, advanced age, or major surgery. It unites the sufferer to Christ’s passion, forgives sins, and provides peace to endure suffering or prepare for eternal life.
Spiritual and Physical Graces
* Union with Christ: It unites the sick person's pain and trials directly to the suffering of Jesus on the cross.
* Strength and Peace: It gives the soul courage, peace, and comfort to handle the fears or hardships tied to old age and grave sickness.
* Forgiveness of Sins: It wipes away sins if the person is too ill or weak to receive the Sacrament of Penance (Confession) beforehand.
* Physical Healing: It restores bodily health if it matches God's will and helps the person's spiritual salvation.
* Preparation for Death: It acts as a spiritual defense and final preparation for passing over into eternal life for those in great danger.
When It Is Administered
* Grave Illness: As soon as a person begins to face a serious health threat from disease or injury.
* Advanced Age: When frailty due to old age significantly weakens a person.
* Before Surgery: When a dangerous medical procedure is the cause of the health risk.
* Repeatedly: It can be received more than once if a serious illness worsens or another distinct grave condition occurs.
