Catechumenate Topic: Anointing of the Sick
James 5:14-16
This sacrament is for the spiritual strengthening of those who face illness. The anointing signifies a special out pouring of the Holy Spirit.
The anointing is done by a priest, and result in the forgiveness of venial sins, a increase in hope and strength to face the difficulty and suffering that illness brings. The sacrament ties a person close to Christ especially in that their suffering is united with Christ’s suffering on the Cross.
The sacrament also prepares one for their final journey if that is the will of the God. Viaticum, food for the journey, final Eucharist, sometimes given with the sacrament as what is known as Last Rites before someone dies.
Anyone who is sick, suffers from a long term disease, or is facing surgery should request the sacrament, it is not just for those dieing, but indeed for the living but burdened with illness.
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