The Spiritual Care of a Dying Catholic: What a Priest Might Say

This question, What does a priest say to a dying person?, is one that has evolved over generations, reflecting the diverse experiences and backgrounds of a myriad of individuals. Specific phrases and rituals can vary greatly, depending on the person's faith, cultural background, and personal preferences. However, one thing that remains constant is the presence of a priest, offering spiritual support and care during this momentous time in a person's life.

Types of Interactions

When a person is nearing the end of their life, the conversations with a priest can take on various forms. Sometimes, these conversations mirror those of any ordinary occasion, perhaps offering a sense of normalcy and comfort. Other times, the priest may be administering significant sacraments such as confession or the Anointing of the Sick. In cases where a dying person does not want to engage in dialogue, the presence of the priest itself can provide solace and assurance.

Leaving a Legacy to the Church

Even in the face of such a moment, financial decisions can still be made. Take the case of the author's grandpa, who attended Mass daily until his death. He made the decision to leave nearly everything to the Church, despite having four children. Unfortunately, this decision led to a legal dispute, as he was later proven to have been coerced into changing his will on his deathbed. This example highlights the importance of making informed decisions and the potential consequences of last-minute changes.

JMJ - Just Mírce Julián

The phrase JMJ is an abbreviation for Just Mírce Julián, a prayer often said in the presence of a dying person in the Catholic tradition. This prayer is part of a broader series of questions and offers of sacraments, which might include:

Would you like to go to confession now? Would you like to receive Holy Communion, the sacrament of the Eucharist? Would you like to receive the sacrament of Anointing? And they will give you the Apostolic Blessing, which is a plenary indulgence for the dying.

Prayers During the Anointing of the Sick

The priest, during the prayer of the Anointing of the Sick, typically says:

Through this holy anointing, may the Lord, in his love and mercy, help you with the grace of the Holy Spirit.

May the Lord who frees you from sin save you and raise you up.

These words, taken from the Catechism of the Catholic Church, serve to console the dying person and remind them of the hope and grace offered by the Christian faith.

Prerequisite for Anointing

For the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick to be administered, only priests, presbyters, and bishops are qualified to do so. They must use oil that has been blessed by the bishop or, in emergencies, by the presbyter himself. The Catechism of the Catholic Church also mentions that the Church grants a special indulgence for the dying person, upon the addition of a prayer known as the Apostolic Pardon.

The Apostolic Pardon

The prayer for the dying, known as the Apostolic Pardon, is as follows:

Per sancrosáncta humán reparatiónis mystéria remíttat tibi omnípotens Deus omnes prséntis et futúr vitae pnas paradísi portas apériat et ad gáudia te sempitérna perdúcat. . Amen.

Through the holy mysteries of our redemption, may almighty God release you from all punishments in this life and in the life to come, open to you the gates of paradise and welcome you to everlasting joy. . Amen.

Conclusion

No reputable priest would ever solicit a donation during a time of such great sorrow for the dying person and their loved ones. This moment is reserved for offering solace and comfort through holy prayers and spiritual support, not soliciting financial contributions. As the dying person's final moments draw near, the key focus remains on providing the necessary spiritual care and support to ensure they leave this world with a sense of peace and comfort.