Anointing of the Sick

If a Catholic is very ill, they or their family may ask a priest to anoint the sick family member with oil in a ritual of healing called Anointing of the Sick. The purpose of the sacrament is to strengthen the soul and, if needed, the remission of sins. For many Catholics, this might only occur once as part of your end-of-life care or if you have been through a life-threatening situation. But the Church has encouraged the sacrament be celebrated in other situations too, such as if you are in need of spiritual healing or about to undergo surgery. It is one way the Church continues the healing ministry of Jesus.