The Holy Mysteries
Holy Unction
The Euchelaion, the oil of prayer, for the healing of soul and body and the forgiveness of sins. It is not a rite for the dying.
“The prayer of faith shall save the sick.” — James 5:15
The Mystery of healing
Holy Unction is the Mystery of healing. The Church anoints the sick with blessed oil and prays for the healing of body and soul, the forgiveness of sins, and the strengthening of the suffering person. Unction is not reserved only for those near death.
It may be received by the faithful in times of serious illness and is commonly celebrated for the whole community during Holy Week. The Church prays confidently for physical healing while entrusting the outcome to God, knowing that His grace also brings endurance, reconciliation, spiritual restoration, and peace.
Practical guidance
Holy Unction in practice
Not last rites
For the sick, at any stage
Unction is given at the onset of illness, before surgery, and in long or chronic infirmity. It is not reserved for the dying, and to ask for it is not to give up hope.
The service
Seven, or one
The full form calls for seven priests, seven epistles, seven gospels, seven prayers and seven anointings, though one priest suffices. The oil is applied to forehead, cheeks, chin and hands.
During Holy Week
The whole parish anointed
In many parishes Unction is served in Holy Week and the faithful receive it together, the sick and the well, since no one comes to Pascha without need of healing.
Calling for a priest
If you or someone in your family is ill, at home or in the hospital, contact the pastor. He will arrange to come and anoint, and there is no need to wait until matters are serious.
