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Objection 1: It would seem that this sacrament should be given in
any kind of sickness. For no kind of sickness is determined in the
fifth chapter of James where this sacrament is delivered to us.
Therefore this sacrament should be given in all kinds of sickness.
Objection 2: Further, the more excellent a remedy is, the more
generally should it be available. Now this sacrament is more excellent
than bodily medicine. Since then bodily medicine is given to all
manner of sick persons, it seems that this sacrament should be given in
like manner to all.
On the contrary, This sacrament is called by all Extreme Unction.
Now it is not every sickness that brings man to the extremity of his
life, since some ailments prolong life, according to the Philosopher
(De Long. et Brev. Vitae i). Therefore this sacrament should
not be given in every case of sickness.
I answer that, This sacrament is the last remedy that the Church can
give, since it is an immediate preparation for glory. Therefore it
ought to be given to those only, who are so sick as to be in a state of
departure from this life, through their sickness being of such a nature
as to cause death, the danger of which is to be feared.
Reply to Objection 1: Any sickness can cause death, if it be
aggravated. Hence if we consider the different kinds of disease,
there is none in which this sacrament cannot be given; and for this
reason the apostle does not determine any particular one. But if we
consider the degree and the stage of the complaint, this sacrament
should not be given to every sick person.
Reply to Objection 2: The principal effect of bodily medicine is
bodily health, which all sick people lack, whatever be the stage of
their sickness. But the principal effect of this sacrament is that
immunity from disorder which is needed by those who are taking their
departure from this life and setting out for the life of glory. Hence
the comparison fails.
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