Anointing of the Sick

The Apostles cast out many demons and anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them (Mark 6:13).

            Some time ago, I was approached by a family whose elderly mother was dying of cancer. When I suggested the woman receive the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, they responded by saying since she was not dying they would wait. About a week later, her condition took a turn for the worse and she died before I could get to the Hospital. When I arrived they asked me to anoint her but it was too late: the Sacrament is for the living and not the dead. Their story demonstrates how there are still many Catholics who misunderstand the purpose of Anointing of the Sick.

            In this passage from Mark, Jesus commissions his Apostles to do Pastoral Ministry which includes the anointing and healing of the sick. By doing so, he reveals how care for the sick is an important part of the Church’s work.

            During New Testament times, people were anointed with oil for numerous reasons. When athletes prepared for competition, they loosened their muscles through the application of oil. Oil applied to the body (which then evaporated) provided relief from the heat during the hottest parts of the year. As part of the Jewish Burial Rites, the deceased were often anointed with oil. For the sick, oil frequently provided relief from discomfort and was occasionally included as part of the Medical treatment. Since illness was frequently seen as a form of Divine punishment, and certain types of disease (Leprosy, Hemorrhages) made one ritually impure, the connection between the Medical and Spiritual state of an individual was strong. Since the proclamation of the Kingdom of God was a central part of Christ’s Mission (and that of his Apostles), signs associated with its establishment, such as Healings and Exorcisms reinforced the message. When the Disciples were instructed about their Mission, Jesus indicated the importance of these two activities through the delegation of his authority over sickness and Demons. As a visible sign of this Divine power, the ill were anointed with oil. From this instruction developed the Church’s teaching about Ministry to the sick and the Sacrament of Anointing.

            Long before the Covid 19 Pandemic, many Catholics misunderstood the purpose of the Sacrament of Anointing. For some, it was delayed until right before death because it insured the forgiveness of all Sin and immediate entry into Heaven. Families often postponed requesting it for fear it would distress the dying. However, the Church has consistently taught the Sacrament could be repeated as frequently as necessary. Since Vatican II, the Church has stressed it is called the “Sacrament of the Sick” and not the “Sacrament of the Dying.” While not intended for minor ailments, it is appropriate for those undergoing surgery, suffering with serious chronic conditions as well as those who are dying. The purpose of the Sacrament is to assure those who are sick and their families the Church is conscious of their situation and prays for the restoration of health (if possible) and the removal of all Sin and other Spiritual obstacles from the ill. It also reminds the sick their suffering is joined with that of Christ which will bring to them Spiritual Graces. During this Covid 19 Pandemic, many of the ill and their families battle with feelings of loneliness. The Sacrament is one way to respond to this Pastoral need.

            Jesus taught his Disciples care for the sick and anointing them with oil were an important part of their Pastoral Ministry. The Sacrament of the Sick reminds all Catholics the needs of the ill are still a priority today.

July 11, 2021