Why did Jesus perform miracles?
to demonstrate that He is the Messiah and to show compassion for those who suffer...
How does the Church show compassion to those who suffer?
thousands of Catholic hospitals and saints throughout the ages who dedicated themselves to caring for the sick.
What instructions did Jesus give to the Apostles about those who are sick?
Before ascending to Heaven, Jesus said to preach the Gospel, baptize in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and to lay healing hands on the sick so that they can be restored to health.
What instructions did St. James give about the sick?
To Church Elders, James told to pray over the sick, and anoint with oil in the name of the Lord. The Lord will forgive their sins and restore them.
Why doesn't God always heal the illness of the sick?
Sacrament restores physical health if good for the salvation of the soul (but all will die eventually).
What are the limitations on God's grace?
No limitations on God's Grace but people can reject or not be fully present and available to receive grace(s).
What method did Jesus generally use to perform healing miracles?
Jesus healed sacramentally; so He generally used physical touch. Jesus - God incarnate - was the physical sign of God the Father's healing.
What transforms the sick in both body and soul?
An active & personal encounter with Christ gives the healing grace needed by the sick.
Why is oil an effective sign for the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick?
Oil was used to rejuvenate tired bodies with aching muscles; poured on wounds to heal.
What is 'Oil of the Sick' and where does it come from?
Olive oil consecrated by a bishop.
Who are the ministers of the sacrament of the anointing of the sick?
Priests and bishops; not deacons.
How can we say that the Sacrament is an action of the Church as a whole?
The whole Church implicitly prays for the sick. Christ the Head of the Church heals.
What is meant to say the sacrament prepares us for our Heavenly Homeland?
Reconciliation removes sin; Anointing gives the courage to face death, and the Eucharist gives food for the journey.
What are the essential elements for the celebration of the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick?
Prayer, Laying on of Hands, and Anointing with Oil.
What can a minister of the sacrament do if the Oil of the Sick is not available?
In extraordinary circumstances, vegetable oil can be used.
Who may receive the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick?
Those in danger of death due to illness, an upcoming serious surgery, or extremely old age.
When should the sacrament be received?
When someone has previously recovered from an illness but now relapsed, when someone is about to have a major surgery or otherwise at risk of death, even if previously received the sacrament.
Does the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick remove mortal sin?
Yes, if a proper disposition including contrition and the desire to be forgiven.
What other sacrament should normally be celebrated before Anointing?
The Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Why should another sacrament be administered before Anointing?
The Sacrament of Reconciliation to reconcile a person with God.
What is the primary purpose of the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick?To offer
To offer physical and spiritual strength while facing the risk of death.
Graces given by the Sacrament of Anointing include:
Strength, peace, and courage to endure suffering due to illness or old age.
How can human suffering be positive?
Suffering can lead us to contemplate the purpose of our lives and unite our suffering with Christ's.
What can be achieved by offering up our suffering to God?
We imitate Christ who suffered for our salvation.
What are Christians to do regarding the sick and suffering?
Christians are commanded by Christ to show our love for Him by serving those in need. When we do this, we help Christ Himself.