A sacrament is \" an outward sign instituted by Christ to give grace. \" (The Baltimore Catechism)*

The 3 sacraments of initiation are Baptism, Holy Communion, and Confirmation. The 2 sacraments of healing are Confession and Anointing of the Sick (Extreme Unction/Last Rites). The 2 sacraments of vocation are Marriage and Holy Orders (Ordination)

3 sacraments -- Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders -- leave indelible marks on the soul.

4 sacraments are repeatable: Confession, Holy Communion, Anointing of the Sick, and Holy Orders, which can be conferred on a man at 3 levels: deacon, priest, and bishop.

Holy Communion (the Blessed Sacrament) is “the source and summit of the Christian life”. (Catechism of the Catholic Church)

Jesus was Baptized, thus instituting that Sacrament.

Jesus attended the Wedding Feast at Cana, thus instituting the Sacrament of Marriage.

Jesus healed countless people, thus instituting the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick.

Jesus forgave people their sins, thus instituting the Sacrament of Confession.

Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit, thus instituting the Sacrament of Confirmation.

Jesus changed bread and wine into His Body and His Blood at the Last Supper, thus instituting the Sacrament of Holy Communion.

Jesus made His Apostles the first priests, thus instituting the Sacrament of Holy Orders.

Jesus gave His Apostles (and their successors) the “office” to continue administering the 7 sacraments to His Church.

Strictly speaking, only Baptism is required for salvation**. But because we can lose our salvation through sin, the other sacraments are also needed to keep us on the right track. Baptism opens the door to salvation, and the other sacraments are helps along the journey.

(Note: a baptized lay person can baptize someone in an emergency.)

(Note: the Catholic Church is the only one that offers all 7 sacraments.)

© 9-9-21 Credo Veritas