Sacraments

"The sacraments are efficacious signs of grace, instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church, by which divine life is dispensed to us." (CCC 1131)

"The Holy Spirit prepares the faithful for the sacraments by the Word of God and the faith which welcomes that word in well-disposed hearts. Thus the sacraments strengthen faith and express it." (CCC 1133)

Sacraments are outward signs of inward grace, instituted by Christ for our sanctification. They touch all the stages and all the important moments of the Christian life. The Catholic Church celebrates seven sacraments: three sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist; two sacraments of healing: Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick; and two of life commitment and service to the Church: Matrimony and Holy Orders.

For information on the Sacramental Preparation Program for children, please visit Faith Formation Grades Pre-K - 8.