The Healing Hand of a Priest
(A Truth Many Catholics Do Not Know)
The hand of a Catholic priest is a sacred and consecrated instrument, set apart by God to bless, sanctify, and heal. Through the sacrament of Holy Orders, the priest receives the power to act in persona Christi (in the person of Christ) especially in the sacraments. Among the faithful, it is often testified that the priest’s blessing, particularly in the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, brings profound spiritual and even physical healing.
In the Catholic Church, the Sacrament of Extreme Unction (now commonly called the Anointing of the Sick) is given to the seriously ill or dying. This sacrament, instituted by Christ, includes the laying on of hands and anointing with holy oil, signifying healing, forgiveness, and preparation for eternal life.
"Is any man sick among you? Let him bring in the priests of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith shall save the sick man: and the Lord shall raise him up: and if he be in sins, they shall be forgiven him."
– James 5:14-15 (Douay-Rheims)
The hands of the priest are consecrated at his ordination to dispense the sacraments.
These hands, though human, are divinely empowered to touch souls, administer grace, and carry the presence of Christ to the faithful.
"Only a priest can forgive sins, give Holy Communion, and prepare a soul to meet God. No angel, not even the Blessed Virgin Mary, can do what a priest does."
– St. John Vianney
Healing begins with the heart. The sacrament of Confession is an essential part of the healing process. Through repentance and absolution, the soul is restored to grace.
Prayer, particularly the Rosary, frequent Holy Communion, and total abandonment to God’s will, open one’s heart to the transforming power of the Holy Ghost.
"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just, to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all iniquity."
– 1 John 1:9 (Douay-Rheims)
Magisterium Teaching:
The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches:
"By the sacred anointing of the sick and the prayer of the priests, the whole Church commends those who are ill to the suffering and glorified Lord, that He may raise them up and save them."
– CCC 1499
Therefore, do not hesitate to call upon a priest when ill in body or spirit. The hand of the priest is not merely a symbol, but a channel of divine grace and mercy God’s healing touch on earth.