A “Rite” is defined as a formal and/or religious ceremony which involves specific words and actions.   The term “Last Rites” then refers to several different ceremonies – or sacraments – that are administered towards the end of a person’s life.   The three sacraments...

During Anointing of the Sick (found in the Rite of Pastoral Care of the Sick), a priest first blesses the olive oil (if it is not already blessed) and then uses the blessed oil to anoint the person.  The priest first anoints the forehead, saying: “Through this holy...

Unfortunately, there are still some misconceptions among the faithful about the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick.  Some still call it “Extreme Unction” and assume it is only intended for those who are dying.  The Catechism of the Catholic Church gives us a clearer...

In the early Church, the three Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Communion) were celebrated together regardless of the person’s age – from infancy to old age.  However, by the fifth century, these sacraments were separated in the Latin Rite, where...

Marriage is a Charism.  St Paul says “Each has their – gift one for marriage, one for virginity.” Marriage is a gift of the Spirit. Someone might be married but are they living marriage in a charismatic way?  St Paul describes charisms as “manifestation of the Spirit...