Anointing of the Sick

What grace it gives

Strength, peace, healing according to God's will, and union with Christ in suffering.

How the Church celebrates it

• The priest lays hands on the sick person, prays over them, and anoints with blessed oil.
• When possible, the Church also provides confession, Communion, and Viaticum as part of pastoral care.

How to prepare

• Call a priest, parish, or hospital chaplain early rather than waiting until panic or final crisis.
• In an immediate medical emergency, call emergency services first.
• Ask locally about confession, Communion, and practical pastoral care for the sick person and family.

Family and sponsor guidance

• Family members can prepare a calm prayerful space and remain present with hope and dignity.

When to call a priest

Call when someone is seriously ill, facing surgery, weakened by frailty or age, or in another grave need of the Church's strengthening prayer.

Viaticum and last rites

When possible, the sick may also receive confession and Holy Communion as Viaticum. Families should ask the parish or chaplain what pastoral care is available.

Catholic end-of-life and burial guidance

Families facing serious illness, death, burial, or cremation decisions can use the Catholic burial guide for gentle pastoral help alongside parish guidance.

Need Anointing urgently?

If someone is seriously ill, in danger of death, or needs a priest after hours, use the sacramental emergency guide for clear next steps.

Common questions

Common misunderstandings

• Daily Oratory does not provide medical advice or emergency triage.
• This sacrament is not only a sign that death is certain; it is Christ's strengthening care in serious need.