I had permission to go into a Care Home today to anoint someone. It is possibly one of the most moving experiences a priest can have, being there with someone who in this case is coming towards the end of their life. The prayer is quite brief but there is a definite sense of God’s presence. The action of placing your hands on their head (or close in these strange days) and anointing them with oil is a completion of all those sacramental moments we experienced in our lives, baptism and confirmation especially, and sharing that with them. ‘Gowning up,’ as you have to, makes me realise how even tougher working in a home is these days. Wearing a mask all the time is hard enough. But the welcome, the understanding, and the good humour of those there is a tribute to their dedication.
Kendal Catholic Priest 