Annointing of the Sick

The Anointing of the Sick is also known as extreme unction and involves the anointing with oil of the sick and dying (usually accompanied by the Eucharist), in order to confer special grace to spiritually strengthen the person. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, anyone expecting to undergo a serious operation, the elderly, and anyone in dangerous of death is encouraged to receive this sacrament. Only a priest (or higher prelate) can administer this sacrament, and it may be given on more than one occasion.

It is held that in some cases this sacrament effects a miraculous cure, but only if there are things God wishes the recipient of the sacrament to do before dying (known as divine providence). However, its essential purpose is for spiritual strengthening.