The Seven Sacraments The sacraments are efficacious signs of grace, instituted by Christ, by which divine life is dispensed to us.

Sacraments of Initiation Essential Sacramental Symbol Minister Repeated? Baptism Water poured over or immersed in water while saying, “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” Bishop, priest, deacon or anyone in an emergency No Confirmation Laying on of hands and anointing with chrism (sacred oil) while saying, “Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Bishop or designated priest Eucharist Wheat bread and grape wine and the words of consecration Priest Yes

Essential Sacramental Symbol Sacraments of Healing Sacrament Essential Sacramental Symbol Minister Repeated? Penance and Reconciliation Laying on of hands and the words of absolution (forgiveness) Priest Yes Anointing of the Sick Anointing with the oil of the sick accompanied by the liturgical prayer of the priest

Sacraments of Vocation Essential Sacramental Symbol Minister Repeated? Holy Orders Laying on of hands and the prayer of consecration asking for the gifts specific to that order Bishop No Matrimony Exchange of marriage vows The couple being married No, unless a spouse dies

Sacraments of Initiation Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist are the foundation of Christian life; every Catholic should receive all three. They are all closely related. All three connect us more closely with the parish community. In all three we receive the Holy Spirit and his gifts. But each has its own special symbols and effects.

Baptism’s primary effect is the beginning of our new life in Christ

Confirmation Confirmation’s primary effect is to strengthen us to live more fully Christ’s call to serve.

Eucharist The primary effect of the Eucharist is to nourish us to live as Christ’s disciples in our journey through this life.