What are the Last Rites?

The Last Rites are a collection of prayers and sacraments that are administered to a person who is in grave danger of dying. The sacrements that are done as a part of the Last Rights are the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Penance), followed by the anoniting of the Sick (during Last Rites sometimes referred to as Extreme Unction), and finally Viaticum (Holy Communion given as food for the journey to eternal life). 

Who Can Receive the Last Rites?

Any Catholic can receive Last Rites. Non-Catholics may also receive Last Rites under certain circumstances. The Catholic Church urges members not to wait until they or their loved ones are on their deathbeds to request the Last Rites. Instead, they encourage members to call whenever death is possible or imminent.

Why are the Last Rites Important?

The Last Rites can be used to help give Catholics the spiritual strength needed for both physical and spiritual recovery, at times when they may be at the brink of death.

When a faithful Catholic faces imminent risk of dying or is on the verge of death, the Last Rites can be administered to offer them a final chance to be absolved of their sins in preparation for entering heaven, to denounce their sinful ways, and face their individual judgment to avoid hell.