“They also drove out many demons and healed many of the sick, anointing them with oil.” — Mark 6:13 (BSB)
“Bless the LORD, O my soul, and do not forget all His kind deeds—He who forgives all your iniquities and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with loving devotion and compassion.” — Psalm 103:2–4 (BSB)
The 1662 Book of Common Prayer includes provision for this ministry in the “Visitation of the Sick.” It directs the priest to “anoint him with oil (if he desires it) in the Name of the Lord,” accompanied by prayer for forgiveness and restoration. This ministry brings comfort, encourages repentance, and often strengthens faith in times of suffering.
Canon Dr. John Yates III (Falls Church Anglican, ACNA) explains, “The Anointing of the Sick is a tangible sign that Christ is present in suffering. It reminds the sick and dying that they are not forgotten—they are still part of the Body and still under the care of the Shepherd.”
Bishop Ray Sutton (Reformed Episcopal Church) writes, “Healing is ultimately in God’s hands. But this sacramental action calls us to trust in His will, whether He grants physical recovery, spiritual peace, or eternal rest in Christ.”
Archbishop Foley Beach (ACNA) affirms, “We anoint the sick because Jesus is still the Healer. This ministry may bring physical relief, but it always brings a reminder of God’s nearness and love.”
Older Anglicans also valued the rite. J.C. Ryle urged the Church to recover “earnest, believing prayer for the sick,” writing, “If we neglect this, we lose one of the Church’s great privileges—a ministry of comfort and healing.” (Simplicity in Worship, 1882)
Anointing does not guarantee physical healing, but it brings spiritual renewal and a profound sense of Christ’s compassion. It is especially meaningful for the dying, as it helps the soul prepare to meet the Lord with peace, faith, and hope.
St. Hippolytus of Rome (c. 215 AD): “Let the elders pray over the sick and anoint them, as the apostles taught. For the Spirit of Christ heals both body and soul.” — Apostolic Tradition, 5
St. John Chrysostom (c. 347–407 AD): “When we anoint the sick, we are not trusting in oil, but in the name of the Lord. The oil is a sign; the power is Christ’s.” — Homily on James, 5
St. Cyril of Jerusalem (c. 313–386 AD): “The oil of anointing is not common oil, but consecrated through the invocation of the Spirit. It brings healing, sanctification, and courage to endure.” — Catechetical Lectures, 21.3
An Anglican Catechism (Expanded) offers over 350+ Scripture-based answers to the core truths of the Christian faith. Each entry includes biblical texts, theological insight, and reflections from historic and contemporary Anglican voices. Rooted in the classical tradition, it is designed for teaching, discipleship, and spiritual formation.
An Ancient Worship Movement invites readers into the rich, historic worship of the early Church rediscovered through the Anglican tradition. This book calls believers into a deeper, Spirit-filled encounter with Christ through timeless practices.
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