“Are any among you sick? They should send for the church elders, who will pray for them and rub olive oil on them in the name of the Lord. This prayer made in faith will heal the sick; the Lord will restore them to health, and the sins they have committed will be forgiven.” (James 5:14-15)

 

The sacrament of the sick is the 7th sacrament of the Catholic Church. It can be received any time throughout our life when needed, but most commonly given in the last few days of our life. We must understand that not in all cases it is given to someone on their deathbed. This sacrament can be given to those who are suffering from a chronic illness, awaiting surgery, or is of old age. Last rites are usually only given to someone who is on their deathbed. 

 

Some Protestant churches have a version of this sacrament, where individuals of the congregation lay their hands on the person and pray with them and for them, that they may be healed from their sickness. 

 

Throughout the Gospels we see miracles of Christ healing the sick through the power of His word. Jesus heals our sickness and sin, so that we can be made new in Christ. Even through the book of Acts of the Apostles, we see the apostles with the Holy Spirit healing illness and casting out demons. The sacrament of the anointing of the sick was given by Christ to His disciples, and handed down to the current priest and bishop today. 

 

“Jesus called his twelve disciples together and gave them authority to drive out evil spirits and to heal every disease and every sickness.” (Matthew 10:1)

 

This Sacrament gives us God’s Grace, and the strength to overcome anxiety, depression, temptation and spiritual pain. Most sacraments of the sick include confession, anointing with holy oil, bible readings, the Eucharist and prayers. The sacrament commonly takes place in a private place with your family or loved ones around. The sacrament of the sick is there to give us comfort, healing and support.