Anointing of the Sick & Extreme Unction RETURN TO THE SACRAMENTS PAGE The Anointing of the Sick is part of the general Visitation of the Sick, and is a sacramental way of conveying God's grace to seriously ill persons, the dying, and those about to undergo surgery. In the case of the dying, it is usually called Extreme Unction or "the Last Rights." Visitation of the Sick consists of a serious of prayers, which can vary depending on the exact situation, followed optionally by Communion of the Sick, and then the Anointing with Oil. It can be done in hospitals, nursing homes, private houses, or wherever there is a need. The sacrament may begin with the priest sprinkling the sick person and the room with holy water. Then, after the intial set of prayers and psalms, the sick person may be moved to make a private confession. Then Holy Communion (frequently done from the reserved sacrament) is administered. The Visitation of the Sick concludes with the anointing of the person's forehead with the Oil of the Sick. Additionally, and particularly in Extreme Unction, the person may wish to be anointed at the seats of the senses, e.g., the hands, feet, nose, eyes, etc. For more on the doctrine and theology relating to Anointing of the Sick and Extreme Unction, please visit the Southwest Catechism page or acquire a copy at the ADSW Bookstore. An oil stock containing Oil of the Sick, and marked appropriately with the initials "O.I." Small aspergillum (holy water sprinkler) used in Visitation of the Sick A pyx, for transporting consecrated hosts for Communion of the Sick