The Holy Oil of the Sick is an important part of the Catholic Church's sacrament of the anointing of the sick. It is usually made from pure olive oil and is consecrated by a bishop. The word "holy" is pronounced /ˈhoʊli/ with stress on the first syllable, while "oil" is pronounced /ɔɪl/. "Sick" is pronounced /sɪk/ with the "s" sound at the beginning and "k" sound at the end. The spelling of this phrase is straightforward and reflects standard English phonetics.
The holy oil of the sick, also known as the sacramental oil of the sick or the Oil of Anointing, is a sacred substance used in the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick within the Catholic Church. It holds significant spiritual and religious significance for Catholics.
The holy oil of the sick is a special oil that has been blessed by a bishop during a specific ceremony called the "Chrism Mass." It is typically composed of pure olive oil, although other vegetable oils may also be used. The oil is consecrated, or set apart for sacred use, during the blessing ceremony, invoking the Holy Spirit to infuse it with spiritual power.
In the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, a priest uses the holy oil to anoint the forehead and hands of the sick individual. This anointing is accompanied by the prayers and sacramental rites of the church, which are believed to offer spiritual comfort, healing, and forgiveness of sins to the sick person. It is seen as a sacred moment that unites the suffering of the individual with the suffering of Christ.
The holy oil of the sick represents the presence of God and the power of the Holy Spirit in the life of the sick person. It is believed to bring spiritual strength, peace, and grace during times of illness or approaching death. The sacrament is not primarily intended to bring physical healing, but rather the healing of the soul and spiritual preparation for eternal life.