- Candles are often lit at the priest’s arrival. It is Christ who is the Light of the World and by lighting the candles it shows Christ is present.
- A cross or crucifix are present at the time of anointing, so the sick can feel at one with God. Both the crucifix and candles are part of the “Sick Call Set”.
- A stole is worn by the priest as he administers of the sacrament of Anointing of the Sick.
- Oil is used in this sacrament to represent Jesus’ healing grace. The Twelve Apostles, used oil to anoint the sick and many were cured (Mark 6:13).
- An olive branch is a symbol of the consolation of the Holy Spirit. The olive branch is often shown carried by a dove, a symbol of the Holy Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit who brings comfort and peace. “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone’s sins, they are forgiven; if you retain anyone’s sins, they are retained.” (John 20:22-23)
- The laying of human hands on the sick symbolises comfort and the power of God entering the sick person through the meditation of the priest.
- The Eucharist symbolises the eternal life and the Body of Christ and is sometimes given when the sick is anointed.