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

SacramentEssential Sacramental Symbol MinisterRepeated? BaptismWater 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 ConfirmationLaying on of hands and anointing with chrism (sacred oil) while saying, “Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Bishop or designated priest No EucharistWheat bread and grape wine and the words of consecration PriestYes Sacraments of Initiation

Sacraments of Healing SacramentEssential Sacramental Symbol MinisterRepeated? Penance and Reconciliation Laying on of hands and the words of absolution (forgiveness) PriestYes Anointing of the Sick Anointing with the oil of the sick accompanied by the liturgical prayer of the priest PriestYes

Sacraments of Vocation SacramentEssential Sacramental Symbol MinisterRepeated? Holy OrdersLaying on of hands and the prayer of consecration asking for the gifts specific to that order BishopNo MatrimonyExchange 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 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.