CCC 1499 - Anointing of the Sick - Catechism Tour #51

Summary

The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is a profound expression of God's care for those suffering from illness, uniting them with Christ's redemptive passion. Rooted in Scripture and the Church's tradition, it offers healing, forgiveness, and spiritual growth through the sacred anointing and prayers of the priest. The sacrament provides strength, peace, and courage to the sick, empowering them to contribute to the Church's sanctification. It prepares individuals for death and eternal life, particularly through the gift of Viaticum, the Eucharist as 'food for the journey.' This sacrament affirms that even in suffering, one is never alone, as Christ walks with them.

Takeaways

• 😀 The sacrament of the anointing of the sick is a sacrament of healing that addresses both physical and spiritual suffering.
• 😀 Illness and suffering are part of the human condition, but they can lead to spiritual growth and greater closeness to God.
• 😀 Jesus Christ, as the divine physician, demonstrated compassion for the sick and continues to heal through the sacrament of anointing.
• 😀 The sacrament was historically restricted to those near death but was broadened in 1972 to include anyone seriously ill.
• 😀 The sacrament is administered by a priest or bishop and is often requested by the sick or their family members.
• 😀 The liturgical celebration of the sacrament includes prayer, the laying on of hands, and the anointing with blessed oil.
• 😀 One of the spiritual effects of the sacrament is the forgiveness of sins, as the person is united with Christ's passion.
• 😀 The sacrament empowers the sick to offer their suffering for the benefit of the Church and to pray for others.
• 😀 Viaticum, or 'food for the journey,' is the final Eucharist given to those near death, connecting them with Christ’s resurrection.
• 😀 The sacrament prepares the individual for their eternal journey, fortifying them spiritually as they approach death.
• 😀 The anointing of the sick is celebrated within the community, highlighting the solidarity of the Church with those who suffer.

Q & A

What is the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick?

The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is a sacrament of healing in the Catholic Church, instituted by Christ. It provides spiritual and physical healing, offering grace and strength to those who are seriously ill or in danger of death.

How does the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick relate to Christ’s healing ministry?

Christ, as the divine physician, showed great compassion for the sick during His earthly ministry. Through the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, Christ continues His healing work, offering His grace and touch through the priest, both healing the body and forgiving sins.

What are the key elements of the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick?

The key elements of the sacrament include anointing with blessed oil, prayers for healing and forgiveness, the laying on of hands by the priest, and the Liturgical celebration which can include the Eucharist and confession if appropriate.

Who is eligible to receive the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick?

The sacrament is intended for any faithful who are seriously ill or in danger of death due to illness or old age. It may also be administered before major surgery or when frailty increases in the elderly.

What is the theological significance of suffering in the context of this sacrament?

Suffering, particularly through illness, is seen as part of the human condition. Through this sacrament, illness can be transformed into a spiritual opportunity to grow closer to God, uniting one’s suffering with Christ’s Passion for the sake of spiritual maturity and redemption.

How does the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick contribute to the sanctification of the Church?

The sacrament allows the sick person to participate in Christ's redemptive suffering, contributing to the sanctification of the Church. Their suffering becomes a prayer for the Church and for the salvation of others.

What does the term 'Viaticum' mean in the context of the Anointing of the Sick?

Viaticum is the Eucharist given to those near death, symbolizing 'food for the journey.' It prepares the dying person for their passage from this life to eternal life, offering the hope of resurrection and connection with Christ’s Passover.

What role do family members play in the celebration of the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick?

Family members are encouraged to participate by requesting the sacrament when necessary and by being present during the celebration. Their solidarity and prayers, along with those of the Church, enhance the spiritual experience of the sick person.

How has the practice of the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick evolved over time?

Historically, the sacrament was reserved for those near death, known as 'extreme unction.' However, following Vatican II and Pope Paul VI’s 1972 directives, the sacrament has been extended to all who are seriously ill, not just those at the end of life.

What is the purpose of the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick in relation to preparing for death?

The sacrament helps prepare the sick person spiritually for death. It provides grace, strength, and peace, enabling the individual to face death with the hope of eternal life and to make a peaceful and prayerful transition from this life to the next.