Anointing during the Mass

[me24503]

This morning I saw someone cross their arms in the presence of the Eucharist in front of our Monsignor, who instead appeared to anoint her on the forehead with the sign of the cross. I am personally working through an annulment and am attending RCIA in the fall, working toward being in full communion with the Body of Christ. I am also dealing with several personal issues in my life that could use some prayer and anointing. Would it be improper in the presence of the Church and the Eucharist to seek such an anointing? I’ve been on the journey toward partaking in the sacrament for a long time but had never seen this. Anyone with information, please help! Thanks!

 

[Phemie]

No one who isn’t allowed to receive Communion should be joining the Communion procession for the express purpose of receiving a blessing (it’s not an anointing unless oil is used). It’s not a licit practice though it is a common one in many parishes.

Instead, it is recommended that you stay in your pew and make a spiritual communion while looking forward to the time when you too will be able to join the rest of the community at the Banquet of the Lord.

There is a moratorium on discussing this topic. Please have a look at the Sticky on moratoriums (moratoria?)

 

[me24503]

Thanks! All I needed to know!

 

[SuscipeMeDomine]

Did he anoint her (with oil) or give her a blessing?

Blessings in the communion line are common though not approved. I’ve never encountered anyone being anointed in the communion line.

If your parish does blessings then you may go up and receive one if you would like. Or you may stay in your pew and make a spiritual communion saying a prayer like this one:

My Jesus,
I believe that You
are present in the Most Holy Sacrament.
I love You above all things,
and I desire to receive You into my soul.
Since I cannot at this moment
receive You sacramentally,
come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace You as if You were already there and unite myself wholly to You. Never permit me to be separated from You.

Amen.

A few minutes after communion the priest will give a blessing to everyone.

 

[me24503]

It was a blessing. As I am not able to partake in Communion, per the Mortatorium sticky that I didn’t read fully (sorry?!!?!), per Canon 915, I should not enter the Communion precession (which I currently do not). Thank you for the prayer, I have written it down and will utilize it next Sunday.

 

[japhy]

This morning I saw someone cross their arms in the presence of the Eucharist in front of our Monsignor, who instead appeared to anoint her on the forehead with the sign of the cross.

First, welcome to the RCIA process.

Second, the custom in some places of receiving a blessing instead of Communion during the Communion procession is the subject of some dispute. Please read this post.