Why Are There Two Sacraments of Healing, Penance and Anointing of the Sick? | Prof. Roger Nutt

Apr 15, 2025

In this engaging discussion, Prof. Roger Nutt, Provost of Ave Maria University and expert in theology, dives into the healing sacraments of Penance and Anointing of the Sick. He highlights their roles in addressing sin and personal suffering while guiding Christians toward a hopeful understanding of death. Drawing on the teachings of St. Thomas Aquinas, Nutt emphasizes how these sacraments deepen our relationship with God and provide transformative grace amidst life's challenges. Prepare to view the journey of faith in a new light!

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insights

INSIGHT

The Great Work of Man

The great work of man is to always take blame for his own sins before God and to expect temptation to his last breath.
This humility and constant vigilance is more essential than extreme austerities like prolonged fasting.

insights

INSIGHT

Christian View on Death

Death is redeemed and illuminated by faith and Christian hope.
United to Christ, death transforms from catastrophic to a promise guiding us toward our true homeland, heaven.

insights

INSIGHT

Original Sin as a State

Original sin is a state, not personal fault; humans inherit a wounded nature inclined to sin.
Baptism imparts grace erasing original sin but the struggle with concupiscence and temptation continues.

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Exploring Death as a Transformative Journey in Christian Faith

07:09 • 5min

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Understanding Original Sin and Its Impact on Human Struggle

12:03 • 10min

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The Theological Foundations of Healing Sacraments

22:18 • 20min

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The Significance of Sacraments in Deepening Intimacy with God

42:47 • 2min

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General Principles of Sacramental Theology

Roger Nutt

Roger Nutt's "General Principles of Sacramental Theology" provides a comprehensive overview of the theological foundations of the sacraments. The book explores the nature and significance of sacramental grace, the relationship between the sacraments and salvation history, and the various aspects of sacramental theology. It offers a systematic and insightful analysis of the sacraments, drawing upon theological traditions and contemporary perspectives. The work is valuable for both students and scholars of theology, providing a solid foundation for understanding the central role of the sacraments in the Christian life. It contributes to a deeper appreciation of the sacramental life of the Church.

To Die Is Gain

Roger Nutt

Roger Nutt's "To Die is Gained" offers a theological exploration of the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick. The book delves into the significance of sacramental theology, particularly focusing on penance and anointing as sacraments of healing. It addresses contemporary challenges and questions related to these sacraments, providing insights for clergy, laity, caregivers, and anyone interested in understanding the spiritual journey towards death. Nutt's work emphasizes the importance of these sacraments in navigating difficult life questions and finding peace in the face of suffering and death. The book draws upon theological traditions and contemporary perspectives to offer a comprehensive understanding of the sacrament's role in the Christian life.

Thomas Aquinas’ ‘De Unione Verbi Incarnati’

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Roger Nutt

Roger Nutt's "Thomas Aquinas’ ‘De Unione Verbi Incarnati’" is a scholarly work dedicated to a detailed analysis of Thomas Aquinas's treatise on the Incarnation. The book delves into Aquinas's theological insights on the union of the divine and human natures in Christ. It explores the complexities of Christology within the framework of Aquinas's thought, offering a rigorous and nuanced interpretation of his work. The book is a valuable resource for scholars and students of theology interested in a deeper understanding of Aquinas's Christology. It contributes to ongoing scholarly discussions on the Incarnation and its significance within Christian theology.

The Life of Antony

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Athanasius

Athanasius' "Life of Antony" is a hagiography detailing the life of St. Anthony of the Desert, a prominent figure in early Christian monasticism. The book recounts Anthony's renunciation of worldly possessions, his struggles against temptation in the Egyptian desert, and his profound spiritual growth. It depicts Anthony's life as a model of ascetic devotion and spiritual discipline, inspiring generations of Christians. The narrative emphasizes the importance of prayer, self-denial, and the fight against spiritual forces. The book's impact on early monasticism and its continued relevance to spiritual seekers are undeniable.

St. Thomas Aquinas's Summa Theologiae is a monumental work of systematic theology, aiming to present a comprehensive overview of Christian doctrine. It's structured around questions and articles, exploring various aspects of faith and reason. The Summa covers topics such as God, creation, the human person, salvation, and the sacraments. It's considered a cornerstone of Catholic theology and has profoundly influenced philosophical and theological discourse for centuries. Its enduring relevance lies in its systematic approach and integration of faith and reason.

Lord of the World

Robert Hugh Benson

Written in 1907, 'Lord of the World' is an apocalyptic novel that forecasts a future where religion, particularly Christianity, has been largely eradicated. The world is governed by a secular, humanistic regime led by a charismatic figure named Julian Felsenburgh, who is often referred to as the 'Lord of the World. ' The story follows Percy Franklin, an English Catholic priest who becomes Pope Silvester III, as he navigates this dystopian world and confronts the spiritual and moral decline of society. The novel explores themes of spiritual emptiness, the erosion of traditional morality, and the ultimate conflict between faith and a secular, totalitarian government.

Prof. Roger Nutt explores the theological significance of the sacraments of Penance and Anointing of the Sick as healing encounters that address both sin and its temporal consequences, emphasizing the Christian's journey toward a good death in light of Christ's redemptive act.

This lecture was given on February 9th, 2025, at Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

For more information on upcoming events, visit us at thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-events.

About the Speaker:

Roger W. Nutt is Provost of Ave Maria University where he also serves as professor of theology. He co-directs the Aquinas Center for Theological Renewal with Dr. Michael Dauphinais and Dr. Steven Long. His research focuses on Christology and Sacramental Theology, and especially the Theology of St. Thomas Aquinas. He is the author of three books: Thomas Aquinas’ ‘De Unione Verbi Incarnati’ (Peeters Publishers, 2015); General Principles of Sacramental Theology (The Catholic University of America Press, 2017); and To Die is Gain: A Theological (re-)Introduction to the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick for Clergy, Laity, Caregivers, and Everyone Else (Emmaus Academic, 2022). He has also edited and co-edited ten volumes on various theological topics. His articles and chapters have appeared in publications such as Nova et Vetera, Gregorianum, Louvain Studies, The Thomist, Harvard Theological Review, Angelicum, Antiphon: A Journal of Liturgical Renewal, and The Oxford Handbook of the Reception of Aquinas.

Keywords: Anointing of the Sick, Ars Moriendi, Death, Penance, Philippians, Sacrament of Healing, Saint Anthony of the Desert, Sacramental Theology, Temporal Consequences of Sin

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