Sacraments

Jesus touches our lives through the sacraments. Our celebrations of the sacraments are signs of Jesus’ presence in our lives and a means for receiving his grace. The Church celebrates seven sacraments, which are divided into three categories: initiation; healing; and service.

  • Baptism

    Baptism is a Sacrament of Initiation. The three Sacraments of Initiation lay the foundations of every Christian life. In Baptism we receive new life in Christ. Baptism takes away original sin and gives us a new birth in the Holy Spirit. Its sign is the pouring of water.

  • Confirmation

    Confirmation is a Sacrament of Initiation. Confirmation seals our life of faith in Jesus. Its signs are the laying on of hands on a person’s head, most often by a bishop, and the anointing with oil. Like Baptism, Confirmation is received only once.

  • Eucharist

    The Eucharist, or Holy Communion, is a Sacrament of Initiation. The Eucharist nourishes our life of faith. Its signs are the bread and wine we receive—the Body and Blood of Christ. We receive the Eucharist each time we attend Holy Mass

  • Penance

    Penance, of Reconciliation, is a Sacrament of Healing. The two Sacraments of Healing celebrate the healing power of Jesus. Through Penance we receive God’s forgiveness. Forgiveness requires being sorry for our sins. In Penance we receive Jesus’ healing grace through absolution by the priest. The signs of this sacrament are our confession of sins and the words of absolution.

  • Anointing of the Sick

    The Anointing of the Sick is a Sacrament of Healing. This sacrament unites a sick person’s suffering with that of Jesus and brings forgiveness of sins. Oil, a symbol of strength, is the sign of this sacrament. A person is anointed with oil and receives the laying on of hands from a priest.

  • Marriage

    Marriage is a Sacrament of Service. There are two Sacraments of Service, which help members to serve the community. In matrimony, a baptised man and woman are united with each other as a sign of the unity between Jesus and his Church. Matrimony requires the consent of the couple, as expressed in the marriage promises. The couple and their wedding rings are the signs of this sacrament.

  • Holy Orders

    Holy Orders is the second Sacrament of Service. In Holy Orders men are ordained as priests, deacons, or bishops. The signs of this sacrament are the laying on of hands and anointing with oil by the bishop. Nuns, Sisters, Brothers and Monks are known as Religious. While dedicated to serving God in a special role, Religious do not receive the Sacrament of Holy Orders. Rather, they take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.