Abstract

It is the right of the Catholic faithful to receive the sacraments when appropriate. The COVID-19 pandemic has presented new challenges in dispensing the sacraments, particularly to the sick who often need them most. Canon law dictates who can dispense the sacraments as well as where this can happen. Many dioceses have sought to find creative ways to reach those in need of the sacraments while keeping to the guidelines laid out by Canon law and public health authorities. Anointing of the Sick presents particular challenges while also being vitally important to Catholics who suffer from a life-threatening illness. Special precautions must be taken to ensure that communicable diseases are not spread during the administering of this sacrament, but it is essential that it be administered at the appropriate time.