Last week I wrote about the Holy Sacrament of Confession. This week I wish to write a few words about the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick.
This Sacrament is to be bestowed upon any person who is ill or suffering. It is meant not only for grave, end-of-life moments when one is preparing for death, but for all ages and for a wide array of illnesses and sufferings. We all encounter maladies from time to time that threaten our physical health, mental and emotional health, and our spiritual health.
The anointing of the Sick is offered for all sufferings that fall under these categories. Through the anointing, the sick person receives the Holy Spirit’s gifts of healing, strength, faith, peace, consolation, patience and courage.
When the priest blesses the oil during the Rite, he uses the following blessing, and what beautiful words they are: “God of all consolation, you chose and sent your Son to heal the world. Graciously listen to our prayer of faith: send the power of the Holy Spirit, the Consoler, into this precious oil, this soothing ointment, this rich gift, this fruit of the earth. Bless this oil and sanctify it for our use. Make this oil a remedy for all who are anointed with it; heal them in body, in soul, and in spirit, and deliver them from every affliction.”
Then the priest anoints the forehead saying, “May the Lord in his love and mercy help you with the grace of the Holy Spirit.” Then he anoints the hands, saying: “May the Lord who frees you from sin save you and raise you up.”
Friends, I encourage you to always reach out to Fr. Thiago and me should you ever desire the Anointing of the Sick. We are pleased and privileged to offer this beautiful Sacrament of God’s Grace.