SEVEN SACRAMENTS OF ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
Image of Babtism of Jesus in Jordan By Edward Matulanya Explore the seven sacraments of the Roman Catholic Church; Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick, Marriage, and Holy Orders, and their spiritual significance in Catholic life. 1. Meaning of Sacraments A sacrament is a visible sign instituted by Christ to give grace (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2nd ed., §1131). They are central to Catholic theology, worship, and daily Christian living (Catechism of the Catholic Church [CCC], 1997; Second Vatican Council, 1965). The sacraments sanctify believers at every stage of life, from birth until death. 2. General Teaching on the Sacraments The seven sacraments are divine actions entrusted to the Church through which God communicates sanctifying grace. They are effective signs, meaning they truly bring about what they signify (CCC, 1997, nos. 1131–1134; Sacrosanctum Concilium, 1963). For e xample, a Catholic receives Baptism at birth, r...