The healing of the sick has been an important component of Christian life and ministry since the earliest writings of the New Testament.  The Gospels present us with many instances of Christ and his disciples going among the people in order to heal them in mind, body and spirit.  In fact we should be aware that healing, as it is often portrayed in scripture, is closely intertwined with forgiveness; disease and illness with the destructive effects of sin and evil. “They had come to hear him and be healed of their diseases; and those who were troubled with unclean spirits were cured. And all the crowd were trying to touch him, for power came out from him and healed all of them” (Luke 6:18-19). These healings, of course, announced a more radical healing; the ultimate victory over sin and death of Christ’s death and resurrection.

The sacrament today continues to emphasise the human person as body and soul, in need of healing both spiritual and physical. 

The Rite of Anointing tells us there is no need to wait until a person is at the point of death to receive the Sacrament. A careful judgment about the serious nature of the illness is sufficient.