Dearly Beloved Brothers & Sisters in Christ,

Today, as we gather for the Holy Unction service on this blessed Holy Wednesday, we are reminded of God’s immense love and mercy, which extends not only to the soul, but also to the body. Holy Wednesday stands as a day of preparation, a day where we begin to witness the culmination of Christ’s great sacrifice for us, which we will fully observe during the Passion of Christ on Good Friday. But before we proceed into the intense suffering of Christ, we are given a gift; a gift of healing, a gift of grace, a gift of compassion.

In the Holy Orthodox Church, the Sacrament of Holy Unction is a powerful and comforting sacrament, one that speaks deeply to both our physical and spiritual needs. It is a sacrament of healing, reminding us that Christ is the Great Physician, and that He came not only to heal our spiritual wounds, but to care for our physical infirmities as well.

We know that Christ’s earthly ministry was marked by His compassion and care for the sick. He did not shy away from touching the sick, the blind, the lame, or those suffering. In the Gospels, we see countless examples of Christ healing the sick. The healing miracles of Christ -whether it was healing a blind man, casting out demons, or raising the dead- were not just demonstrations of His power, but were signs of the Kingdom of God breaking into the world.

The oil used in the sacrament is a powerful symbol. In the Scriptures, oil is often a symbol of the Holy Spirit. In the Old Testament, we see that oil was used in anointing kings, priests, and prophets, setting them apart for a divine purpose.

In the New Testament, the oil continues to be a sign of consecration and blessing. In this context, the oil of Holy Unction signifies the healing presence of the Holy Spirit, who touches and heals every aspect of our being.

As we participate in the Holy Unction service, let us remember that healing is not just about the application of oil but also about our faith. In the Gospels, we see time and again that Christ healed those who approached Him in faith. The woman with the issue of blood, who touched the hem of His garment, was healed because of her faith. The blind man who cried out to Jesus for mercy was healed because he believed in Christ’s power.

We, too, must approach this sacrament with faith. We must believe that God desires to heal us; physically, spiritually, and emotionally.

As we participate in the Sacrament of Holy Unction, let us open our hearts to the healing power of Christ. Let us bring before Him all our afflictions -our physical sickness, our emotional struggles, our spiritual weaknesses- and trust that He, the Great Physician, will heal us.

As we prepare to enter into the profound suffering of Christ’s Passion, let us be mindful of the great love He has for us. His love heals, His love restores, and His love brings us into the fullness of life.

With paternal blessings and love in Christ,

† Metropolitan Cleopas of Sweden and All Scandinavia