What is a sacrament? A sacrament is an outward sign instituted by Christ to give grace.
Baltimore Catechism #304
The Church has Seven Sacraments:
The Sacraments of Initiation by which we become members of the Body of Christ and His Church, Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Eucharist (also known as Holy Communion).
The Sacraments of Vocation by which we are blessed in our life's calling in a special way,
Holy Matrimony (Marriage) and Holy Orders.
The Sacraments of Healing by which we reconcile ourselves to God and receive His healing mercy, Reconciliation (also known as Confession or Penance) and Anointing of the Sick.
Through these seven Sacraments we have outward signs (water, anointing with oil, laying on of hands, bread, wine) that impart real grace. This grace is a free gift from God, we do not merit grace, we do not earn it. We ask, we prepare, we receive. The following quotes might give you something to ponder as you think about the sacraments and why we have them.
If you have any questions, please contact us and we will be happy to speak with you about the Sacraments and how you can receive them if that is your desire.
As fire transforms into itself everything it touches, so the Holy Spirit transforms into the divine life whatever is subjected to its power. CCC #1127
Baptism and Confirmation are not magical actions, but rather occasions to experience the mystery of Jesus’ death and resurrection taking place within those who are making a commitment to him.
Sacraments: Encountering the Risen Lord, Rev. Paul A. Feider, Pg. 20
Sacraments are actions, not things.The Church is a we, not an it…a group of people with a
strong common awareness of being one in Christ. The Book of Sacramental Basics, Tad Guzie, Pg. 32
Sacraments
…symbolic expressions of sacred realities which are recognized and accepted by those who have faith…
…experienced revelation of the holy…doors to the sacred…
…enter into a religious dimension of human existence…
…occasion an alternative of a person’s experience of space and time…an external present…
In a personal experience, it makes my life meaningful.In a social experience it makes our lives meaningful.But sacred meaning, when it is experienced, is also mystery.
Sacred meaning, when it does appear, does not have to appear; does not have to be experienced.So when it does appear it is felt to be a gift, a grace. Doors to the Sacred, Joseph Martos, Ch. 1