What ever happened to Extreme Unction?

[KowboyM]

I thought these sacraments were the most precious doctrins of the Church, and that they could never be changed? I am confused, on the Sacrament of Extramunction (mispel), they say is no longer; been replaced by "Annointing of the Sick"? How can they be the same, one for the dying, other for the sick? Thanks for your response.

[Fr. Vincent Serpa]

Dear k,

The old name: "Extreme Unction" means last anointing. "Etreme" was used to mean "last." "Unction" means anointing. The sacrament has not changed, but the name "Sacrament of the Sick" or "Anointing of the Sick" better conveys that fact that it is a healing sacrament that is meant for the living as well as for those near death. It has always been meant for both. This is not new. The sacreament has not changed--just the name.

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.