Anointing of the Sick: Catholic Sacrament of Healing Explained

2026-07-13 · 6 min

The Sacrament of Healing

The Anointing of the Sick is one of the seven sacraments, instituted by Christ for the spiritual and sometimes physical healing of those who are seriously ill or weakened by age. Formerly called Extreme Unction, the Second Vatican Council restored its broader purpose for all who face serious illness.

The Catechism teaches: “As soon as anyone of the faithful begins to be in danger of death from sickness or old age, the fitting time for him to receive this sacrament has certainly already arrived” (CCC 1514).

Biblical Foundation

Mark 6:13 recounts: “They drove out many demons, and they anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.” James 5:14-15 provides the clearest mandate: “Is anyone among you sick? He should summon the presbyters of the church, and they should pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord.”

Who Can Receive the Anointing of the Sick?

Any baptized Catholic who has reached the age of reason and is in danger of death due to illness or old age may receive it. It may be received as often as needed—for each new serious illness or worsening condition.

The Effects of the Sacrament

• It unites the sick person’s suffering to the Passion of Christ.
• It strengthens against the temptations of the devil.
• It forgives sins if the person cannot receive Penance.
• It brings peace and courage to endure suffering.
• It may restore health if conducive to salvation.
• It prepares the soul for passing to eternal life (viaticum).

The Rite of Anointing

The priest lays his hands on the sick person’s head, blesses the oil, and anoints the forehead and palms, saying: “Through this holy anointing may the Lord in His love and mercy help you with the grace of the Holy Spirit.”

When to Call a Priest

Do not wait until the last moment. Call your parish priest when facing serious illness, surgery, or advanced frailty. The Church encourages the family to gather for this communal celebration of faith and hope.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I receive the anointing more than once, and how often is too often?

Yes, you may receive it as often as needed. Each new serious illness, or a worsening of an existing condition, is a fitting occasion. If surgery is scheduled or your health declines again, ask for the sacrament. There is no limit and no minimum interval. Frequent reception is not excessive; the Church encourages it whenever danger returns.

My father is unconscious and cannot respond. Can he still be anointed?

He can. The sacrament is for the seriously ill, and consciousness is not required. If he is baptized and his condition is serious, the priest should be called without delay. If he previously showed any sign of faith or asked for the sacrament, that is enough. Speak to the priest about your father's situation and any wishes he expressed.

Is it true this sacrament is only for people who are about to die?

No, that is a common misunderstanding. Extreme Unction, the older name, made it sound like a final rite, but the Church intends it for anyone seriously ill or weakened by age who is in real danger. Recovery is entirely possible afterward. You should call a priest when serious illness begins, not only at the very end.

What actually happens during the anointing, and who performs it?

Only a priest or bishop administers it. He prays over you and anoints your forehead and hands with oil blessed by the bishop, saying the words of the Church. In danger of death, he may also give Communion as Viaticum and the Apostolic Pardon. Confession may precede it if you are able to confess.

Does the anointing guarantee that the person will be physically healed?

No, physical healing is not guaranteed. The Church teaches that the sacrament gives grace, peace, and strength, unites your suffering to Christ, and forgives sins when confession is not possible. Sometimes health improves, and that is a gift. Often the healing is spiritual, preparing the person for death or for bearing illness with courage.