When four friends lowered a paralyzed man through a roof, Jesus first forgave his sins, then healed his body. Jesus is the physician of souls and bodies, and He continues His healing in two sacraments.
Reconciliation is for sins committed after Baptism. The penitent's part has three acts, and the priest gives absolution:
- Contrition: being truly sorry, with the resolve not to sin again.
- Confession: telling our sins to a priest. All mortal sins must be confessed, and confessing venial sins helps us grow.
- Satisfaction: doing the penance the priest gives to help repair the harm of sin.
Reconciliation restores our friendship with God and the Church, brings peace of conscience and gives strength for the journey. The seal of confession is absolute.
The Anointing of the Sick is for anyone seriously ill or weakened by old age, or before a serious operation. As Saint James wrote, the priest prays over the sick person and anoints the forehead and hands with the Oil of the Sick.
It gives strength, peace and courage, unites the sick person's suffering with Christ's, forgives sins if the person cannot confess, sometimes restores health if God wills, and prepares the soul to meet God. Holy Communion given to the dying is called viaticum, “food for the journey.”