From Apostolic times (see the Letter of St. James in the Bible), those who ministered to and within the Christian community were urged to lay their hands upon the sick and to anoint them. The purpose of anointing is to bring healing. Most often this healing is spiritual, but on occasion, if God so desires, it may also be physical.
In the past, the Anointing of the Sick was most often reserved to those in imminent danger of death. This is no longer the case. In fact, the preference is to celebrate this sacrament as often as the sick person feels would be helpful. While it is often administered to those with a life-threatening diseases or conditions, it should not be put off to a time when the individual cannot actively participate in the rite — in fact, it can be administered at first diagnosis and as often thereafter as appropriate; perhaps at significant points in the progression of the disease.
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What about “The Last Rites?” There is some confusion, often engendered by the media, over what is sometimes called “The Last Rites.” Contrary to widespread misunderstanding, this term is not the same as Anointing of the Sick.
The proper celebration for those about to die is called Viaticum (“food for the journey”), the last time that person receives the Body and Blood of Christ. This is a special ritual celebrated near the time of death. When administered by a priest, an opportunity for Reconciliation (or confession) may also be provided as part of the rite if the patient desires. When these various rites are celebrated together, they are often called “Last Rites,” although this is not the proper term for it. But let’s not get lost in the proper or improper names: we are essentially aiming for the “pastoral care of the sick” – a practice (as we said above) which goes all the way back to the days of the Apostles.
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On the second Wednesday of each month at Holy Cross church (November 13th this month), we offer a Mass which includes the sacramental anointing of the sick. Please join us at 8:30am. If you cannot join us in person, please join us in prayer.
