The primary purpose of the Anointing of the Sick is to provide spiritual healing and comfort to the recipient.

Through the sacrament, Catholics believe that God's grace is bestowed upon the sick person, offering strength, peace, and the forgiveness of sins. It is not solely focused on physical healing but encompasses the holistic well-being of the individual.

The sacrament is typically administered by a priest or bishop. It involves the anointing of the sick person with holy oil, known as the Oil of the Sick or the Oil of the Infirm, on the forehead and hands. The priest prays for the sick person, asking for God's healing and strength. The ritual may also include the laying on of hands and the prayer of the community gathered.

The Anointing of the Sick is one of the seven sacraments recognised by the Catholic Church. It is considered a sacrament of healing, along with the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) and the Sacrament of the Eucharist (Communion). It is an outward sign of the Church's care and concern for the sick and a means of uniting the suffering of the individual with the suffering of Christ.

The Anointing of the Sick is intended for those who are seriously ill or facing a significant health crisis. It is not limited to those who are near death but can be received multiple times if the person's condition worsens or another serious illness arises.

The sacrament can be received by anyone who has reached the age of reason (typically around 7 years old) and is open to Catholics in a state of grace.