Sacraments of the Catholic Church

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Sacraments of the Catholic Church

The Sacraments of the Catholic Church are rites recognized as of particular importance and significance. There are seven sacraments in the Catholic Church, which are seen as both symbols of grace and means of receiving it. These sacraments are divided into three categories: the sacraments of initiation, the sacraments of healing, and the sacraments of service.

Sacraments of Initiation

The sacraments of initiation are the foundation of every Christian life. They include:

• Baptism: The first sacrament of initiation, which cleanses a person of original sin and makes them a member of the Church.
• Confirmation: This sacrament strengthens the grace of Baptism and is associated with the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
• Eucharist: Also known as Holy Communion, this sacrament commemorates the Last Supper, where Jesus Christ instituted the sacrament of his Body and Blood.

Sacraments of Healing

The sacraments of healing are meant to restore the body and soul. They include:

• Penance: Also known as Reconciliation or Confession, this sacrament provides forgiveness of sins committed after Baptism.
• Anointing of the Sick: This sacrament offers grace for the state of illness, providing physical and spiritual healing.

Sacraments of Service

The sacraments of service are directed towards the salvation of others. They include:

• Holy Orders: This sacrament ordains a man to the deaconate, priesthood, or episcopate, enabling him to serve the Church.
• Matrimony: Also known as marriage, this sacrament unites a man and a woman in a lifelong covenant of self-giving love.

Importance and Effects

The sacraments are considered essential for salvation and are seen as channels of grace. Each sacrament has its own specific effects and significance:

• Baptism: Removes original sin, initiates into the Church.
• Confirmation: Strengthens the grace of Baptism, bestows the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
• Eucharist: Nourishes the soul, unites the faithful with Christ.
• Penance: Forgives sins, reconciles with God and the Church.
• Anointing of the Sick: Provides healing and comfort.
• Holy Orders: Empowers to serve the Church.
• Matrimony: Unites spouses, signifies Christ's union with the Church.

Related Pages

• Catholic Church
• Christian theology
• Grace (theology)
• Holy Spirit
• Jesus Christ
• Last Supper
• Original sin
• Priesthood (Catholic Church)
• Reconciliation (theology)