Sacraments of Healing

Reconciliation

Those who approach the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Penance, Confession) obtain pardon from God's mercy for the offense committed against him, and are, at the same time, reconciled with the Church which they have wounded by their sins and which by charity, by example, and by prayer labors for their conversion. ( Catholic Catechism 1422 )

on Reconciliation

Anointing of the Sick

At one time, what we practice now as the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick was offered only when a person was near death. This is why it was called, “Extreme Unction” (anointing in extreme circumstances) and commonly referred to as “last rites.”

Today, any seriously ill or infirmed person can be anointed at any time; death need not be imminent. Persons scheduled for surgery likewise should be anointed before entering the hospital. 

on Anointing of Sick