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May a Layperson Give Last Rites?

Question:

If a person is dying and wants the last rites, may a layperson say a prayer and have it be the same?

Answer:

While a layperson could say prayers and bring Communion to someone at the point of death, a layperson cannot validly administer the last rites. The last rites involves anointing with holy oil and the absolution of sins, and only a validly ordained priest can administer that sacrament.

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