Catholic Bishop in Angola Calls for Greater Emphasis on Anointing of the Sick During Jubilee Year

He encouraged health agents to educate their communities on the true significance of the sacrament. 

“Let us remove from our minds the notion that when we call the priest for the Anointing of the Sick, we are only preparing for death. This is not the case,” Bishop Sumbelelo said. 

He continued, “It is a sacrament of great importance, given to both the sick and those in advanced age.”

The Local Ordinary of Viana also recommended that communities hold regular celebrations of Anointing the Sick sacrament. 

“How wonderful it would be if, at least once a month, we could celebrate this sacrament for those who request it, or for those we feel should receive it,” he said, and added, “This is a pastoral act that brings spiritual benefits not only to the sick but also to the priests and the entire Christian community.”

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Making reference to the theological teachings on the care of the sick, Bishop Sumbelelo reminded the congregation that serving the sick is an act of mercy toward Christ himself. 

“When we tend to the sick, we are serving Christ. This is one of the corporal works of mercy,” he said.

The Catholic Bishop also expressed appreciation to the healthcare workers at the Kapalanga Hospital, the largest public health institution in his diocese. He encouraged them to view each patient as the face of Christ. 

“To the doctors, nurses, and all the staff, remember that the suffering face you see in your patients is the face of our Lord Jesus Christ,” Bishop Sumbelelo said.

He added, “In your work, even without mentioning Christ’s name, you are manifesting your love for Him by caring for the sick.”