Anointing the Sick

The Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Church acknowledge the Anointing of the sick as the seventh sacrament. Anointing the sick is an ancient tradition. In ancient times, the sick were anointed with holy chrism (muron) on their deathbed. But since it is not possible to predict one's death, the Armenian Church has combined this sacrament with that of chrismation to make sure that everyone receives the last anointment before death. It was established according to the message of the Apostle who founded it. Are any among you sick? They should call for the elders of the church and have them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord?. (James 5:14). According to the Church fathers, the aim is to grant perfect health through penance. The service does not have any association with the preparation for death or last anointment. It is strictly to be used as a sacrament for healing, and can be repeated.

In the Armenian Church, only clergy may be anointed after death. This is done to honor them in regard to their priestly office.