New Rite of Extreme Unction

 Not just for those who are at the point of death. It is meant for anyone who is suffering a serious illness: physical, emotional, mental or spiritual. The Sacrament may be received at any time during a person’s illness, especially before surgery or treatment. Sacraments are for the living.

How is the Sacrament celebrated?

Anointing of the Sick is a Sacrament of the Church. Therefore it is preferable, as far as possible, to celebrate the rite when others can be present.

The Sacrament is administered by a priest and follows this structure:

a) The rite begins with the Sign of the Cross with blessed water which reminds us of our baptismal promise to die with Christ so that we might rise to new life with him.

b) The readings from Scripture are adapted to the condition of the sick person.  

c) The Sacrament of Penance (Confession) may be celebrated within the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick.

d) The priest places his hands on the head of the one to be anointed, and anoints the forehead and hands of the sick person with the Oil which has been blessed by the Bishop during Holy Week.

e) Holy Communion may be received at this time.

f) The priest then blesses the sick person and all present.

What happens if death is imminent or has occurred?

If death is imminent and the patient has not already been anointed, the priest should be called to give the Sacrament of the Sick for the spiritual healing of the patient and the comfort of the relatives. If the patient is conscious the priest will offer the last Holy Communion (Viaticum) that is given as food for the final journey.

Depending on the circumstances, the priest will pray the prayers of Commendation of the Dying.

If death has taken place, the Prayers for the Dead are prayed and the body is sprinkled with Holy Water recalling the promise of New Lifehe deceased received in Baptism.