The Church is our Mother from cradle to grave, giving us spiritual birth in the Sacrament of Baptism and preparing for us for eternal life in the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick. Many consider this Sacrament more as “Last Rites” but it is not only for those who are close to death, but also for those with a serious illness or before a potential life threatening operation. The catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us: “The first grace of this sacrament is one of strengthening, peace and courage to overcome the difficulties that go with the condition of serious illness or the frailty of old age. This grace is a gift of the Holy Spirit, who renews trust and faith in God and strengthens against the temptations of the evil one, the temptation to discouragement and anguish in the face of death. This assistance from the Lord by the power of his Spirit is meant to lead the sick person to healing of the soul, but also of the body if such is God’s will. Furthermore, “if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.” (#1520)
Occasionally this Sacrament has a healing power and can produce a miracle. I once anointed a man as he was on the way to the operating room. He looked pale and near death and even the doctor told me that he had a slim chance of making it…ten years later, he is alive and well today! Another 30 year old man had been hit by a car while crossing the street and was in a coma for a few days when I went to give him this Sacrament. His mom and sister were in the room and they told me the Doctors were not hopeful…I later received a call from one of his friends, saying that he recovered and wanted to thank me personally. He told me, “Fr. Michael, I don’t know you, but I remember your visit to me in the hospital room a few weeks ago. I was in a coma, but for some reason, your presence made a special impact on me. I could hear your words and more importantly, I felt the power of your blessing. It was very real and I consider this to be a miracle. I wanted to thank you personally for this special grace.” I told him, “I am just an instrument…be sure to thank God. He must love you very much.” Another 80+ year old man was recovering from a stroke in intensive care, and during the blessing, his eyes opened wide and he spoke with much greater clarity…all of the kids were in the room and they were amazed to see this immediate cause and effect.
Sometimes, it can be a more silent witness that makes the most impact. A gentlemen in DC was no longer able to talk and his wife thought he might be near the end, so she asked if I could stop by to administer the Sacrament. Immediately after the blessing, he reached out for my hand and held it tightly…his eyes filled with tears and he was trying to whisper, “Thank you…thank you for coming…thank you so much.” When I entered the room, his face reflected a lot of anxiety, as I left, I saw tremendous calm and joy. Two days later, he died in peace.
Death is a mystery. As we approach the door of eternity and our final journey to meet God, allow his soothing grace to touch your hearts or those of your loved ones…God wants to accompany us in this final phase!!
