The sacrament that brings peace

By Msgr. Pedro Lopez-Gallo

Everyone will agree that death is no laughing matter. On the contrary, most of us even find the word "death" scary. Jesus Himself prayed with all His heart, "Father, if it is Your will, take this cup from me." He accepted the will of God and redeemed us by His death.

Jesus's anguish was so severe that an angel appeared from heaven to strengthen Him, and His grief was so intense that He perspired blood (Lk. 22:42-44).

On the other hand, Jesus was aware that His death was the price of redeeming the world. What an enormous task, to be charged with all our iniquities, our sins and offences against God. No wonder Jesus felt stress, and His soul was sorrowful even to death. A profound sadness invaded his heart. His grief was not exaggerated.

How little we think about the suffering of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemani! Only one other case of blood-sweat has ever been reported. It was that of a cardinal who got a high number of ballots during a conclave, though insufficient to be elected Pope, and suffered the sweat of blood.

Jesus's agony in the Garden was for Him, "a man like us in all things but sin," the most humiliating, painful moment of His life. Although sinless, He took upon Himself the wrongdoing of the universe, to redeem us.

Added to His suffering was solitude: three apostles nearby were ... asleep! Mary, His Mother, was not with Him because Jesus did not want her to witness His arrest, the mockeries, the flogging and crowning with thorns. She would encounter her suffering Son on His way to crucifixion.

Although we will never experience such atrocious tortures, one day we may suffer a heart attack or some form of illness indicating that death is near, that it is we "for whom the bell tolls." When this happens, say: "God, stay with me," then call for a priest who will bring the sacraments that can help your body and soul.

Many Catholics still believe that calling for a priest and the last rites is tantamount to dying, but there are many benefits to the sick person. The first grace of this sacrament is to strengthen faith, to give peace and courage, and to overcome the difficulties that go with the condition of serious illness or the frailty of old age.

Through this sacrament the Holy Spirit renews trust and faith in God, gives courage for facing death, and leads the sick to healing not only of the soul, but also of the body, if such is God's will. Furthermore, and this not known to many Christians, "if he/she has committed sins, he/she will be forgiven" (James: 5:15).

Most important is that the sick person receives the gift of being united with the passion and death of Christ and prepares for the final journey to heaven. Listen how precious and full of consolation is the prayer which the priest recites:

"Father in heaven, through this holy anointing grant our brother (or sister) comfort in his/her suffering. When he/she is afraid, give him/her courage; when afflicted, give patience; when dejected, afford hope; and when alone assure him/her of the support of Your holy people. We ask this through Our Lord, Jesus."

Yes, we have so many reasons to be sad, to be afraid, to feel alone, yet we also have many reason to love life. First, because it is a gift of God; and with it come so many things to enjoy: the love of our relatives, the beauty of this earth, the comfort and trust of being loved.

Even our sadness can be transformed by our faith, which teaches us that our death is only the start of a new life in Christ, Who chose to die to give us a share in His resurrection. We know that death is just payment for our sins, yet when at last we die, His loving kindness calls us back to live for ever with Jesus our Redeemer.

In addition to the anointing of the sick, the Church offers those who are about to leave this life the Eucharist as viaticum, a beautiful Latin word meaning the allowance or supplies we need for our last travelling.

This Communion of the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, received at the moment of "passing over" to the Father, has a particular significance and importance. It is the seed of eternal life and the power of the resurrection He promised: "He who eats My Flesh and drinks My Blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day" (Catechism of the Catholic Church, n.1524).

I always pray: "Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom," hoping that although I am unworthy, before I draw my last breath He will reply to me: "Today you will be with Me in paradise" (Lk. 23:43).

Msgr. Lopez-Gallo's columns are available in two volumes for $20 each from St. Andrew's Church Supply, 305 W. 8 Ave. in Vancouver, toll-free 1-800-663-7161. Proceeds will go to Hogar de Nazareth Orphanage in Mexico, which he sponsors.