Sacraments
A Sacrament is a sacred and visible sign that is instituted by Jesus to give us grace, an undeserved gift from God.
Catholics celebrate seven sacraments: Baptism, Reconciliation, Eucharist, Confirmation, Holy Orders, Matrimony, and Anointing of the Sick. The sacraments are “a certain resemblance between the stages of natural life and the stages of spiritual life” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1210).
“The Sacraments are the manifestation of the Father’s tenderness and love towards each of us”
— Pope Francis
Foundations
“The sacraments of Christian initiation – Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist – lay the foundations of every Christian life. The faithful are born anew by Baptism, strengthened by the sacrament of Confirmation, and receive in the Eucharist the food of eternal life. We receive in increasing measure the treasures of the divine life, (CCC, 1212).
Healing
The Sacraments of Healing are Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick. These sacraments offer healing from physical and spiritual illness and suffering.
Salvation of Others
The Sacraments of Holy Orders and Matrimony “are directed towards the salvation of others. They serve to build up the People of God” (CCC, 1534)