This Sacrament affirms God’s loving presence in the midst of our sufferings, fragility, ageing or preparing for surgery.  God accompanies us always.

 

Fr Anthony Kain has written a fine summary of the meaning of the Sacrament of the Anointing.

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The full rite of anointing may be found here. The US Catholic bishops offer some background to the Sacrament and its meaning here.

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The heart of the rite involves olive oil blessed by the bishop in Holy Week. In the celebration of the Sacrament, the priest prays:

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(Anointing the forehead with a cross): Through this  +  holy anointing may the Lord in his love and mercy help you by the grace of the Holy Spirit. R. Amen

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(Anointing each palm of the hands with a cross): May the Lord who frees you from sin + save you and raise you up. R. Amen

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The Sacrament of Anointing is celebrated regularly throughout the year, usually during the Easter and Advent Seasons, and anytime on request.