About the Sacraments
The Catholic Church celebrates seven Sacraments through which we receive the grace of communion with God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Instituted by Christ, the Sacraments are visible signs which confer a share in God’s eternal life.
Sacraments of Initiation
Baptism
Baptism is the sacrament of new life in Christ by which we are cleansed from sin, receive adoption as children of God, and become members of his Church.
Eucharist
The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life. Gathered around the Lord’s table, we offer thanksgiving for and receive nourishment from the Body and Blood of Jesus, in order to go forth to announce the Good News and glorify the Lord in the midst of our everyday lives.
Confirmation
The Sacrament of Confirmation increases and deepens baptismal grace, rooting us more deeply in our identity as beloved sons and daughters of God. Through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, we become true witnesses of Christ in word and deed.
Sacraments of Healing
Reconciliation
Reconciliation is the sacrament through which we encounter the healing mercy of God and receive his forgiveness for sins committed after Baptism. This sacrament restores us to full communion with Christ and his Church and strengthens us to avoid sin in the future.
Anointing of the Sick
The sacrament of Anointing of the Sick brings healing, strength, and comfort to those who are suffering due to illness or advanced age.
Sacraments at the Service of Communion
Holy Orders
Holy Orders is the sacrament by which men receive special graces to serve the Church as deacons, priests, and bishops.
Matrimony
Matrimony signifies the union of Christ and his bride, the Church. This sacrament gives couples the grace to love each other with the self-sacrificial love with which Christ loved the Church.