The Catholic Church teaches that Jesus Christ instituted seven Sacraments to give grace and help people grow in their faith and relationship with God. These Sacraments are divided into three groups:

1. Sacraments of Initiation

These bring a person into full membership in the Church.

Baptism

• What it is: The first Sacrament. It washes away original sin and makes the person a member of the Church.
• Symbol: Water, which cleanses and gives new life.
• Words used: “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”

Confirmation

• What it is: Strengthens the grace of Baptism. The person receives the Holy Spirit more deeply.
• Symbol: Oil (Chrism), laying on of hands.
• Effect: The person becomes a full adult member of the Church and receives the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Eucharist (Holy Communion)

• What it is: Receiving the Body and Blood of Jesus under the appearance of bread and wine.
• Meaning: A sign of unity with Christ and the Church. Catholics believe Jesus is truly present.
• Words used: “This is my body… This is my blood…”

2. Sacraments of Healing

These help heal the body and soul.

Reconciliation (Confession or Penance)

• What it is: Confessing sins to a priest and receiving God’s forgiveness.
• Effect: Restores relationship with God and gives peace of heart.
• Key elements: Sorrow (contrition), confession, penance, and absolution.

Anointing of the Sick

• What it is: Offered to those who are seriously ill, elderly, or near death.
• Symbol: Oil of the sick, laying on of hands.
• Effect: Gives spiritual and sometimes physical healing, courage, and peace.

3. Sacraments of Service

These help build up the Church community.

Holy Orders

• What it is: The Sacrament through which men become deacons, priests, or bishops.
• Effect: Gives the grace and authority to serve the Church through preaching, celebrating the Sacraments, and leading.

Matrimony (Marriage)

• What it is: A covenant between a man and a woman to love and support each other for life.
• Effect: Gives grace to live out a faithful, loving, and life-giving marriage.
• Symbol: The exchange of vows.

Conclusion

The Sacraments are central to Catholic life. They are moments where heaven touches earth—where God’s grace becomes visible and tangible. Each Sacrament helps believers grow closer to God and live as true disciples of Jesus in the world.