Viaticum

Viaticum is a term used in Catholic theology to designate the Eucharist administered to a person who is seriously ill or near death. It is regarded as the final reception of Holy Communion and is often part of the set of rites surrounding death, commonly alongside the Anointing of the Sick and, when possible, the Sacrament of Penance.

Etymology and meaning: Viaticum comes from the Latin viaticum, meaning "provisions for a journey" or "money for the road." Historically the word referred to provisions carried by a traveler, and in ecclesiastical usage it came to denote the spiritual nourishment prepared for the soul on its final journey.

Practice and significance: In Catholic practice, a priest administers Viaticum to a person in danger of death or in grave illness. It is typically given in the form of the consecrated host, reflecting the Catholic understanding of the Eucharist as the real presence of Christ. The reception is often emphasized as a means of grace and unity with the Church at the threshold of death, and it may be offered after the person has received the Sacrament of Penance and the Anointing of the Sick whenever possible.

Other uses and context: Beyond its liturgical sense, viaticum historically referred to travel provisions or support offered for a journey. In modern ecclesiastical usage, the term is primarily associated with the Eucharist administered to the dying. Some other Christian traditions employ related concepts or terminology, though practices and definitions vary.