The seven sacraments, instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church, are perceptible signs of grace. They are efficacious signs accessible to our human nature. The sacraments touch all the moments of our lives - Baptism at birth, Confirmation as the sacrament of maturity, Marriage and Holy Orders aid us in our vocation, Anointing of the Sick during illness and in the face of death. For all those moments in between, we are sustained by the Eucharist and healed in Reconciliation. The sacraments confer the grace that they signify because Christ Himself is at work within them. They are the privileged encounters with the grace of God.
Anointing of the Sick
A sacrament of healing, Anointing of the Sick gives grace to souls, helping them to have courage and hope in the face of their illness as well as preparing them for eternal life.
Baptism
Baptism is the first sacrament we receive and the basis of the whole Christian life. Through it, we are freed from sin and reborn as sons and daughters of God.
Communion
The Holy Eucharist, the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, is our spiritual nourishment. It is the source and summit of our faith.
Confirmation
Called the sacrament of Christian maturity, Confirmation builds on Baptism to strengthen and perfect Christians and make them soldiers for Christ.
Holy Orders
Those called by God to the diaconate and priesthood receive the Sacrament of Holy Orders and become ministers of the Church.
Marriage
In Holy Matrimony, a man and woman are joined in a sacred covenant and given the grace necessary to raise children in the love and fear of God.
Reconciliation
Reconciliation (also called Confession and Penance) gives grace and healing to souls wounded by sin. By it we are reconciled with God and the Church.