Jesus asks us to share one another's burdens, to care for the sick and those experiencing injustice, exploitation, oppression, hunger, poverty, and abuse. The Holy Mystery of Anointing embodies and continues Jesus’ healing ministry and is the reminder to the Church and us that we have a communal responsibility and duty of care for those who are vulnerable.
 
Since it is not always the will of God that there should be physical healing, Jesus’ prayer that “God’s will be done” is the context of Holy Anointing. It seeks to give hope, courage, strength, and peace to the sick person. Also, through the anointing of the body the sufferings of the person are blessed and united to Jesus’ sufferings.

Holy Anointing is not reserved just for the moment of death. It is also celebrated for the healing of the sick―physical and spiritual. It is most commonly celebrated during Holy Week, specifically on Holy Wednesday evening.

Holy Anointing is celebrated by a bishop or priest, at any time, in the Church, home or hospital, using holy (olive) oil. Olive oil conveys rich symbolism, it has been used as a healing treatment since ancient times. The priest anoints forehead and hands with the holy oil.
Holy Anointing is not a substitute for medical treatment, nor is the bishop or priest a replacement for doctors and nurses. Medical science is a gift of God, a sign of His benevolence, wisdom, and love.