Anointing of the Sick | Religion, Philosophy & Ethics for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11 PDF Download

Introduction

A sacrament is defined as an outward sign of inward grace, instituted by Christ to confer spiritual benefits.

The Anointing of the Sick

The Anointing of the Sick is one of the seven sacraments recognized by the Catholic Church. It is specifically intended to provide strength and comfort to individuals who are seriously ill, elderly, or preparing for surgery. 

• Recognized as a sacrament of healing, it can be received multiple times, similar to the sacraments of Reconciliation and the Eucharist.
• This sacrament reflects the compassionate ministry of Jesus, who demonstrated profound care for the sick and urged His followers to continue this practice. 
• The scriptural foundation for this sacrament is found in James 5:14-15, which states: “Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.”

Signs, Symbols, and Actions in the Sacrament

The Anointing of the Sick involves specific rituals and symbols, each carrying profound spiritual significance:

• Laying on of Hands: The priest places his hands on the person’s head, symbolizing the invocation of the Holy Spirit to be present with the individual.
• Anointing with Blessed Oil: The priest anoints the person’s forehead and hands with sacred oil, a gesture that imparts strength to endure suffering.
• Prayer of Blessing: The priest recites a specific blessing: “Through this holy anointing, may the Lord in His love and mercy help you with the grace of the Holy Spirit. May the Lord who frees you from sin save you and raise you up.”

Effects and Importance of the Anointing of the Sick

The Anointing of the Sick holds deep significance for Catholics, offering spiritual and emotional support in times of serious illness or impending death. Its effects include:

• Spiritual Comfort: Through this sacrament, the recipient receives God’s grace through the Holy Spirit, fostering a sense of peace and divine presence.
• Forgiveness of Sins: The sacrament prepares the individual for eternal life by forgiving their sins, ensuring spiritual healing and readiness for salvation.
• Strength and Courage: It provides the recipient with the fortitude to accept their illness, encouraging faith in God’s plan for their salvation.
• Relief from Anxiety: The sacrament promotes inner peace, reducing fear and anxiety about death for the individual.
• Potential for Physical Healing: If it aligns with God’s will, the sacrament may lead to physical recovery.
• Comfort for Loved Ones: Even when death is near, the sacrament offers hope, peace, and courage to both the recipient and their loved ones.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church emphasizes that this sacrament provides “strength, peace, and courage to endure suffering” (CCC 1520), underscoring its role in supporting individuals through physical and spiritual trials.