Metr. Saba Clarifies Practice of Holy Unction
Metr. Saba reaffirmed Holy Unction as a sacrament of healing and repentance while encouraging renewed faith in its use.
ENGLEWOOD, NJ — His Eminence Metr. Saba (Isper) has issued pastoral clarifications on the Holy Sacrament of Anointing, also known as Holy Unction, emphasizing its spiritual purpose and proper use among the faithful. The sacrament, involving prayer over oil for the healing of soul and body, is traditionally celebrated both in churches and homes, though in many places the practice has diminished over time.
The Metropolitan explained that Holy Unction is often served before major feasts such as Pascha and Nativity to prepare believers for Holy Communion through repentance and spiritual readiness. Rooted in apostolic teaching, particularly the Epistle of St. James, the service has long been associated with both physical and spiritual healing, with a strong emphasis on repentance.
Addressing modern pastoral challenges, he encouraged clergy to allow the faithful to take blessed oil home with proper guidance. While distinct from the sacrament itself, such use reflects longstanding Orthodox tradition and offers comfort during illness and hardship.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Metr. Saba addressed Christ on Church failings and humility.
