Understanding Last Rites in the Roman Catholic Church

In the Roman Catholic Church, “Last Rites” refers to a set of sacred rituals administered to a person who is seriously ill or nearing death. While commonly associated with death, Last Rites are not classified as a sacrament in and of themselves. Rather, they are a combination of several sacraments and prayers designed to prepare the soul for its journey into the afterlife.

The primary elements of Last Rites include Confession, Anointing of the Sick, and Holy Communion (often referred to as “Viaticum” when given to a dying person). Each of these plays a unique role in the spiritual preparation for death:

1. Confession: If the individual is conscious and able, they are encouraged to confess their sins, seeking reconciliation with God through the sacrament of Penance. This brings spiritual peace and prepares the soul for eternal life.
2. Anointing of the Sick: A priest administers the sacrament of anointing, where the sick person is anointed with holy oil, invoking God’s healing and grace. This sacrament is meant to provide physical, emotional, and spiritual strength in the face of suffering.
3. Holy Communion (Viaticum): The final reception of the Eucharist, known as Viaticum, is particularly significant for the dying. It is the “food for the journey,” believed to strengthen the person’s soul as they prepare to meet God.

Though Last Rites include these sacraments, the term itself is not a sacrament. The Church views it as a collection of rites and prayers that provide grace and comfort in preparation for death, ensuring that the dying person has access to spiritual help at the critical moment of transition.

Ultimately, the Last Rites reflect the Church’s belief in the sanctity of life and death, providing the dying person with the opportunity to reconcile with God and receive the grace to enter eternal life.