…that in recent years a different emphasis has been placed on the Sacrament of the Sick?
Even the name has changed. The former name, “Extreme Unction” made the sacrament seem like a deathbed experience in preparation for the next life. The new name, “Sacrament of the Sick” tries to convey the real purpose of the sacrament: to confer special grace on the person experiencing the difficulties that accompany serious illness or old age. In the past the sacrament was administered almost always in private (in home or hospital). Although that still can be the case, parish celebrations of the sacrament have become common practice. This helps to underscore the fact that every sacrament combines the action of Christ and the action of the community. We join together to pray not only for our sick and infirm brothers and sisters, but also for all those in our parish family in need of God’s healing.