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The anointing of the sick is often a Catholic Christian’s final sacrament. It is given to people who are in danger of becoming more sick from a serious illness and it is also given to those who are likely to die soon.

This sacrament is given by a priest. It is often given to a person in hospital but it may also be given in a person’s home.

Illness often brings a crisis in a person’s life. This sacrament is a ceremony that gives Catholics spiritual comfort and often helps them to recover their health.

The reason for the anointing of the sick is found in the life of Jesus, who showed special care for the sick and told his followers to have the same concern.

What are the effects of this sacrament?

Many Catholics believe that, by adhering to the sacrament of anointing of the sick, they will achieve:

1. Spiritual comfort - sick people who are anointed receive God’s grace via the Holy Spirit.
2. Forgiveness of sins - when they die, they will be healed, and all sin removed.
3. Strength and courage to accept illness - the person must have faith in God’s plan for their salvation.
4. Relief from anxiety - they will no longer be anxious about death.

The sacrament allows for the possibility of healing while providing support, love and guidance for the individual and their family in the preparation for death.

The sacrament is also linked to Christ’s suffering and allows sins to be forgiven.