Sacraments
The sacraments are sacred rituals through which Catholics encounter God’s grace in meaningful moments of life. They are outward signs of God’s inward love—ways the Church celebrates God’s presence as we grow, heal, commit, and serve.The sacraments remind us that God is present in every stage of life—from birth to death, from joy to hardship. They are not rewards for perfection, but gifts of grace that meet us where we are and invite us to grow in faith, hope, and love.
The Catholic Church recognizes seven sacraments, grouped into three categories:
Sacraments of Initiation
- These sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist begin and deepen our life of faith and belonging in the Church.
Sacraments of Healing
- These sacraments of Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick offer forgiveness, strength, and God’s mercy in times of struggle.
Sacraments of Service and Commitment
- These sacraments call individuals to live out their faith in service to others and the Church.
- Marriage is a lifelong covenant of love and mutual support, blessed by God and sustained by grace.
- Holy Orders ordains individuals to serve the Church through leadership, preaching, and sacramental ministry.