OCIA Session 12: Anointing of the Sick – God’s Care in Suffering and Healing

Welcome back, friends. By now, we’ve explored the sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist), the sacrament of healing through Reconciliation, and the sacraments of service (Marriage and Holy Orders).

Today we continue with another sacrament of healing: Anointing of the Sick.

This sacrament often carries misunderstanding. Many people call it “Last Rites,” as if the only time you receive it is when you’re on your deathbed. But that’s not true. The Anointing of the Sick is meant to bring comfort, peace, and strength to anyone seriously ill, preparing for surgery, facing weakness due to age, or in need of spiritual healing. It’s not the “goodbye sacrament.” It’s the God-is-with-you sacrament.

Biblical Roots

The Anointing of the Sick comes directly from Scripture. In the Letter of James we read: “Is anyone among you sick? Let them call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise them up; and if they have committed sins, they will be forgiven” (James 5:14–15).

From the earliest days, the Church has continued this ministry of Christ: caring for the sick, praying over them, and anointing them with holy oil.

Humor Break

Of course, sometimes Catholics wait until the last possible second to call the priest. A priest once joked: “People call me at 2 a.m. when Grandma is already unconscious. Folks, I’d be happy to come at 2 p.m. too!” The sacrament isn’t about timing death - it’s about giving grace in suffering.

What the Sacrament Does

The Catechism teaches that Anointing of the Sick gives:

Union with Christ’s Passion – Your suffering becomes united with His.
Strength, peace, and courage – You are not alone in your trial.
Forgiveness of sins (if unable to confess).
Preparation for the journey – If death is near, it strengthens for eternal life.
Healing, if God wills it – Sometimes physical, always spiritual.

So it’s never wasted. Even if someone doesn’t “get better,” the grace brings peace, trust, and hope.

Symbols

Oil of the Sick – blessed by the bishop during Holy Week.
Anointing on the forehead and hands.
Prayers for healing, strength, and forgiveness.

These aren’t magic tricks. They’re visible signs of God’s invisible care.

Interactive Reflection

Think of a time when you, or someone you love, was sick or weak. How did you feel? How did others support you? Now imagine God Himself entering that moment - not to wave a wand, but to be with you. That’s what Anointing does.

Parish Connection

Most parishes offer Anointing upon request. Priests also visit hospitals, nursing homes, and hospice centers. Some parishes even host communal Anointing Masses for the elderly or sick. This sacrament shows that the Church never abandons her members in weakness. Instead, she draws closer.

Humor Break #2

If you’ve ever seen the priest show up with his little black oil kit, you know Catholics have a way of making people nervous: “Oh no, Father’s here, am I dying?!” The truth: Father’s visit means Christ is bringing comfort, not a countdown clock.

Why It Matters

In a world that avoids weakness and glorifies youth, the Anointing of the Sick proclaims a countercultural truth: God is present in suffering. Your illness does not make you useless. Your struggles do not mean abandonment. Christ is closest in those moments.

Interactive Activity

Pair up (or reflect quietly). Share: how has suffering - your own or someone else’s - shaped your faith? Did it make you doubt, or draw you closer to God? Be honest. These are the questions this sacrament speaks to.

Action Step

This week:

Visit someone who is sick, elderly, or homebound. Bring comfort, a smile, or a prayer.
Learn when your parish offers Anointing or who to call if someone needs it.
If you are facing illness or fear, pray: “Lord, be with me in my weakness. Unite my suffering to yours.”

Closing

The Anointing of the Sick is not about fear. It is about love, comfort, and strength. It tells us: God is with us in our weakness, and His grace never abandons us. Next time, we’ll turn to a topic close to every Catholic’s heart: Mary and the Saints. Who are they? Why do we honor them? And how do they help us grow closer to Christ? Until then, remember: you don’t need to be strong for God to love you. He meets you in weakness, and He turns suffering into grace.

next class:
OCIA Session 13: Mary & the Saints – Communion of Saints and Marian Devotion