Anointing of the Sick/Unción de los enfermos

There is probably no sacrament more misunderstood than the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick,  also referred to as the "Last Rites."

Father Clint explains: 

• What are the ‘Last Rites’?
  • 3 of the 7 sacraments,  Confession, Anointing of the Sick and Holy Communion offered to someone who is in imminent danger of death
  • However, if the person is no longer conscious then the priest is only able to offer the Anointing of the Sick  (laying on of hands and anointing with the blessed oil)

• The Anointing of the Sick,  James 5:13-14 
  • Its purpose is the healing of body and spirit.
  • It was part of Jesus’ ministry on earth – to heal the sick and to forgive sins.
  • Jesus passed on this ministry to the Apostles.  (see James 5)
  • Includes laying on of hands
  • Includes anointing the forehead and palms of the hands (usually)

• So, what’s the best course of action if someone you love who's Catholic is facing surgery, or who’s become seriously ill or is perhaps entering the final days or moments of their life?
  • First, don’t wait till the last minute.  
• Some people are concerned that if they call for the priest it means that they have somehow ‘given up’; or, they are afraid that the sight of the priest will make their loved one think they are about to die.
• If the person facing surgery or serious illness is still alert, the priest is able to explain what the Church and our prayers are doing for them.  They can join in the prayer themselves and it can be a quite beautiful moment for everyone.

Probablemente no haya ningún sacramento más incomprendido que el Sacramento de la Unción de los Enfermos, también conocido como los "Últimos Ritos".