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Viaticum

Viaticum, a Latin word originally meaning 'travelling provisions', is used in Roman Catholicism for the Eucharist (the consecrated host and wine) administered to a dying person.

(The word beaticum, sometimes found in place of viaticum, is incorrect; it has probably arisen from mishearing, or from a vague association with beatus = blessed.)

Often times if the person becomes unable to take solid foods, the priest will administer the Viaticum by giving the person a few drops of consecrated wine.



07-14-2008 23:18:10
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