Sacraments

What is a Sacrament?

A sacrament is an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace. God gives us these signs as the means by which we receive His grace, and as tangible assurances that we truly do receive it. Through the sacraments, Christ conveys His saving work to His Church in visible and physical form.

(Gen 17:1–21; Jn 6:53–58; R 2:25–29; 1 Cor. 16; 1662 Catechism, To Be a Christian Q.121)

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What Are the Sacraments?

The Sacraments are:

• Holy Baptism

• The Holy Eucharist (Lord’s Supper / Holy Communion)

• Confirmation

• Reconciliation of Penitents (Confession)

• Holy Matrimony

• Holy Unction (Anointing of the Sick)

• Holy Orders

Christ gave the Church authority to administer the means of grace (Jn 20:21-23) and instituted two chief Sacraments, Baptism and the Eucharist, as necessary for new life and union with Him. Through the same authority, the Church also preserves five other sacramental rites, Confirmation, Confession, Matrimony, Anointing of the Sick, and Holy Orders, which arise from apostolic practice [from the Apostles themselves] and continue to convey God’s grace. Together, these make up the seven Sacraments, all entrusted to the Church by Christ’s authority.

(Gen 2:18–24; Mt 19:4–6; Mt 28:19–20; Lk 22:14–20; Jn 6:52–58; Jn 20:21–23; 1 Cor 11:23–26; 2 Cor 1:21–22; 2 Tim 1:6–7; Heb 6:1–2; Jas 5:14; 1662 Catechism; To Be a Christian Q.123–124; Art. XXV) ​

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How Do We Receive the Sacraments?

We receive the Sacraments with faith, repentance, and thanksgiving, trusting not in ourselves but in Christ who works through them. The grace given is real, but for it to bear fruit in us we must receive with humility, devotion, and obedience to His will.

(Mk 16:16; Jn 6:52–58; Acts 2:38–47; 1 Cor. 11:27–32; 1662 Catechism; To Be a Christian Q.122; Art. XXVIII)