Q: We have been discussing the ministry of Anointing the Sick, especially what the Church teaches or gives as guidelines for giving the sacrament of the Anointing to those who are mentally ill, especially those who may be depressed or suicidal, whether professionally diagnosed, self-diagnosed or not diagnosed or under a doctor’s care. We have looked at the USCCB website and find the statements there and it seems to refer only to physical illness.
It seems clear from the statements from the USCCB that physical illness only can invite the Sacrament of Anointing. It seems that interpretation and pastoral discernment are key in when and where the sacrament is celebrated. Are there specific guidelines or canonical or liturgical documents that can help us minister with those who are clearly suffering from mental or serious emotional illness?
Might there be, in the future, some significant research / reflection / guidelines on the spiritual/sacramental care for the mentally and emotionally ill, please. Most writings on pastoral care of the sick focus on physical illness. Journeying with the mentally and emotionally ill and discerning referral to other professionals is increasingly a part of our parish ministry.
As ever, thank you for your wisdom, insight and writing.
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A: God bless you all for caring for all those in great need.
Check no. 53 of the introduction to the ritual book Pastoral Care and Anointing of the Sick. “Some types of mental sickness are now classified as serious. Those who are judged to have a serious mental illness and who would be strengthened by the sacrament may be anointed (see no. 5). The anointing may be repeated in accordance with the conditions for other kinds of serious illness (see no. 9).”