Celebration and Effects
From the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Simplified
Three Sacraments (1517-1519)
Whether for an individual or a group, whether in the home, or in the Church, this anointing is always a liturgical action which should be preceded by Penance and followed by Eucharist as the last sacrament of the earthly journey (Viaticum).
The principal elements of the celebration are the priest laying hands in silence, the prayer of faith, and the anointing with oil blessed by the bishop, if possible. These prayers and actions show the sacrament's grace.
Three Effects - Peace, Healing and Forgiveness (1520)
The person receives peace and strength against temptations and discouragement in their illness. The sacrament's power should lead the person to a healing of soul and the body if God wills. Also, "If he has committed sins, he will be forgiven" (Jas 5:15, Council of Trent).
Consecrated to Christ's Sufferings (1521-1523)
The person is consecrated into a likeness of Christ's sufferings and can see suffering as a participation in Jesus' passion.
By uniting himself to Christ's passion, the sick person contributes to the Church's sanctification. The Church, through the Communion of Saints, intercedes for the sick person.
For those dying, the sacramental anointing (sometimes called "the sacrament of the departing") completes the earlier anointings of Baptism and Confirmation and fortifies the person for their final struggles.
Sacraments for the Journey (1524-1525)
Besides Anointing the Sick, the Church offers the Eucharist as viaticum for this special moment of "passing over" from this world to the Father. At this point, Jesus' words mean so much, "He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life and I will raise him up on the Last Day" (Jn 6:54).
Therefore, Penance, Anointing of the Sick, and Eucharist are the sacraments that prepare for our heavenly homeland and complete our earthly pilgrimage.
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