A true sick call set would include the following:
Other things that may be included, but that are not absolutely critical for a sick call set:
- A crucifix
- A receptacle for holy water
- Two candles/holders
- The priest would bring Communion and the Oleum Infirmorum (Oil for the Sick), commonly abbreviated O.I.) on oil stocks used by priests. Until 1964, when Pope Paul VI published the new Order of Anointing the Sick, olive oil was prescribed for the valid administration of the sacrament. This is no longer necessary. Any oil from plants is permissible in case of necessity; and the blessing by a bishop, though ordinarily required, may now be supplied by a duly authorized priest and, in emergency, by any priest.
Other things that may be included, but that are not absolutely critical for a sick call set:
- Plates/bowls for holding bread, cotton or holy water. (the bread or cotton being useful to absorb excess oil)
- Bottle for storing the holy water
- Cloths
- Cotton
- Instructions for preparing for a sick call/calling the priest
- Spoons
- Ladle (for pouring holy water, perhaps for a baptism if it is a conversion, or to give a sip of water to someone who has difficulty swallowing the communion host)
- Brush/sprinkler for the holy water
- Matches
- Prayer book
- Cup for drinking water
Priest are required to record their "sick calls" in a book called the Sick Call Register. Above is the left side of the
register page. Below is the right side of the page, including notations for Confession (C'FES), Communion (COM.)
Viaticum (VIAT. -- "Food for the Journey" or Communion for someone perceived to be dying), Extreme Unction
(EX.E.--Extreme Unction --the "Final Anointing") the Last Blessing (LAST B.)
register page. Below is the right side of the page, including notations for Confession (C'FES), Communion (COM.)
Viaticum (VIAT. -- "Food for the Journey" or Communion for someone perceived to be dying), Extreme Unction
(EX.E.--Extreme Unction --the "Final Anointing") the Last Blessing (LAST B.)
