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Objection 1: It would seem that the foregoing prayer is not a
suitable form for this sacrament. For in the forms of the other
sacraments mention is made of the matter, for instance in
Confirmation, whereas this is not done in the aforesaid words.
Therefore it is not a suitable form.
Objection 2: Further, just as the effect of this sacrament is
bestowed on us by the mercy of God, so are the effects of the other
sacraments. But mention is made in the forms of the other sacraments,
not of the Divine mercy, but rather of the Trinity and of the
Passion. Therefore the same should be done here.
Objection 3: Further, this sacrament is stated in the text
(Sent. iv, D, 23) to have a twofold effect. But in the
foregoing words mention is made of only one effect, viz. the remission
of sins, and not of the healing of the body to which end James directs
the prayer of faith to be made (James 5:15): "The prayer of
faith shall save the sick man." Therefore the above form is
unsuitable.
I answer that, The prayer given above (Article 8) is a suitable
form for this sacrament, for it includes the sacrament by the words:
"By this holy unction," and that which works in the sacrament,
viz. "the mercy of God," and the effect, viz. "remission of
sins."
Reply to Objection 1: The matter of this sacrament may be
understood in the act of anointing, whereas the matter of Confirmation
cannot be implied by the act expressed in the form. Hence there is no
parity.
Reply to Objection 2: The object of mercy is misery: and because
this sacrament is given when we are in a state of misery, i.e. of
sickness, mention of mercy is made in this rather than in other
sacraments.
Reply to Objection 3: The form should contain mention of the
principal effect, and of that which always ensues in virtue of the
sacrament, unless there be something lacking on the part of the
recipient. Now bodily health is not an effect of this kind, as we
shall state further on (Question 30, Articles 1,2), though it
does ensue at times, for which reason James ascribes this effect to
the prayer which is the form of this sacrament.
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