The Seven Sacraments

The sacraments are visible signs of God’s invisible grace. Instituted by Christ and celebrated by the Church, they nourish and strengthen the life of faith.

While some sacraments are received only once, others can be celebrated regularly as we continue to grow in our relationship with God. 

The Catholic Church celebrates seven sacraments, which are grouped into three categories:

Sacraments of Initiation

These sacraments begin and strengthen our life in Christ.

• Baptism
  Baptism is the beginning of the Christian life. Through water and the Holy Spirit we become children of God and members of the Church.
• Confirmation
  In Confirmation we receive the gift of the Holy Spirit, who strengthens our faith and helps us live as witnesses of Christ in the world.
• Eucharist
  In the Eucharist we receive Jesus Christ himself. At Mass we remember and celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus, and he nourishes us with his Body and Blood. The Eucharist is the center of Christian life.

Sacraments of Healing

These sacraments bring God’s forgiveness and healing.

• Reconciliation (Confession)
  In this sacrament we confess our sins and receive God’s forgiveness. Through reconciliation we are restored in our relationship with God and with one another.
• Anointing of the Sick
  This sacrament brings spiritual strength, peace, and healing to those who are seriously ill or elderly. Through prayer and anointing with oil, the Church entrusts the sick to God’s care.