Sacraments are actions of Christ and of the Church. They are signs and means by which faith is expressed and strengthened. By offering worship to God, our sanctification is brought about. (Code of Canon Law, 840)
Jesus instituted the sacraments and he entrusted them to the Church.
The names of the seven sacraments, which Jesus left us, are:
- Baptism
- Eucharist
- Confirmation
- Reconciliation
- Anointing of the Sick
- Holy Matrimony
- Holy Orders
Every sacrament has its own matter and form which make up the ceremony. Matter refers to what is used as the sign, e.g., bread and wine in The Eucharist. Form refers to the words used, e.g., “I absolve you from your sins” in Reconciliation.
Each sacrament gives us Sanctifying Grace, which is an increase of Faith, Hope and Charity – these are traditionally known as the Theological Virtues. Sanctifying Grace is first received at Baptism where Original Sin is washed away and we are made adopted sons and daughters of God, like Jesus, and we become members of the Catholic Church. Only serious sin can remove Sanctifying Grace from our souls and this can be restored again to us through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Catholics try to receive the sacraments as often as possible because they have the ability to sanctify and strengthen us. When we receive the sacraments and live in the state of grace, we become more like Christ on earth.