View source for Holy Unction

{{spirituality}} 
The [[Holy Mysteries|mystery]] of '''holy unction''' (or '''Anointing of the Sick''') provides both physical and spiritual healing with [[chrism|holy oil]] blessed by the [[Holy Spirit]]. In Greek, the mystery is called Εὐχέλαιον (''Euchelaion'', from εὐχή, ‘prayer’, and ἔλαιον, ‘oil’) and in Russian соборование (''soborovanie''), because it is traditionally celebrated by a ''sobor'' (assembly) of priests.   

In Greek and Antiochian parishes, it is most commonly celebrated during [[Holy Week]] on Holy Wednesday evening. However, neither the [[Typikon]] of the Great Church (which Greeks and Antiochians follow) nor the [[Typikon]] of St Savas (which Slavic traditions follow) provides for its celebration during Holy Week. Celebrations on other days is common.  Everyone in the [[parish]] in good ecclesiastical standing may be anointed with the holy oil for the healing of spiritual and bodily ills.  As this is one of the [[sacraments]] of the [[Orthodox Church]], it may be administered only to Orthodox Christians.

The oil carries God's [[grace]] both to renew the body and to cleanse the spirit.  The service follows the apostolic tradition mentioned in the [[New Testament]]:  "...let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith will save the sick man, and the Lord will raise him up; and if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven" ([[Book of James|James]] 5:14-15).

Holy unction is a [[Holy Mysteries|mystery]] of great comfort to the faithful.  It provides uplifting and asks for patience to accept the will of God whatever the physical outcome.