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Sacraments

The Seven Sacraments of the Catholic Church

The Seven Sacraments are at the heart of Catholic life. They are sacred encounters with Christ—visible signs of God’s invisible grace—that mark and sustain our journey of faith from birth to eternal life.

Each sacrament is a unique way God draws us closer, heals what is broken, strengthens what is good, and sends us forth to love and serve. Through them, we experience the transforming power of God’s presence in every season of our lives.

The Sacraments of Initiation

These three sacraments lay the foundation of every Christian life, drawing us into full communion with Christ and His Church.

  • Baptism – The first sacrament of faith, Baptism cleanses us from sin, makes us children of God, and welcomes us into the Body of Christ, the Church.

  • Confirmation – Strengthened by the gifts of the Holy Spirit, the confirmed are sealed with Christ’s love and empowered to live as courageous witnesses to the faith.

  • Eucharist – The source and summit of our Christian life, the Eucharist unites us intimately with Jesus, who gives Himself to us as true food for our souls.

The Sacraments of Healing

In times of sin or suffering, these sacraments bring God’s mercy, forgiveness, and restoration.

  • Reconciliation (Confession) – Through the priest, Christ Himself offers us forgiveness and peace, reconciling us to God and the Church.

  • Anointing of the Sick – In moments of illness, weakness, or near death, this sacrament brings strength, hope, and spiritual healing through the prayer and anointing of the Church.

The Sacraments of Service and Mission

These sacraments call the faithful to lives of love and service, building up the People of God.

  • Matrimony (Marriage) – In this covenant of love, husband and wife become a sign of Christ’s faithful union with His Church, vowing to love one another for life.

  • Holy Orders – Through ordination, bishops, priests, and deacons are configured to Christ in a special way to preach, serve, and celebrate the sacraments for God’s people.

Each of the sacraments is a precious gift—an opportunity to encounter Christ and grow in grace.
Whether you are preparing to receive a sacrament for the first time or returning after some time away, we invite you to explore these sacred moments and the ways they draw us ever closer to God’s heart.