Who can receive the Anointing of the Sick and what are its spiritual effects?
The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is not only for the moment of death, but for any Catholic who begins to be in danger of death due to grave illness, advanced age, or before undergoing serious surgery. Anointed with blessed oil by a priest, the sick person receives: union with Christ's passion for the good of the Church, peace and courage to endure suffering, the forgiveness of sins if unable to confess, and physical recovery if it serves the salvation of their soul.
Sources
- Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraphs 1511-1523
- James 5:14-15
Awaiting review by the chaplaincy. Written in our own words; the Church's own texts are the authority.