The Sacraments of the Catholic Church - The Seven Sacraments
Matrimony
Matrimony is another term for marriage and the proper term for the Sacrament of Marriage.
What Are the Seven Sacraments of the Catholic Church?
The Catholic Church recognizes seven sacraments, instituted by Christ Himself, which are outward signs of an inward grace acting in our souls.
The Sacraments of Initiation
The sacraments of initiation—Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Communion—are the three primary sacraments, on which the rest of our life as a Christian depends.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is a common name used for the Sacrament of Confession.
The Sacrament of Baptism
The Sacrament of Baptism, one of the three sacraments of initiation, is the first of the seven sacraments of the Roman Catholic Church. It removes the guilt and effects of Original Sin and incorporates the baptized into the Church, the Mystical Body of Christ on earth.
The Sacrament of Penance
The Sacrament of Penance is another name (rarely used today) for the Sacrament of Confession.
The Sacrament of Holy Communion
The Sacrament of Holy Communion is the reception of Christ's Body and Blood. Learn more about the Catholic Sacrament of Communion.
The Sacrament of Confession
What is Confession? What is its purpose and its effects? What are its requirements? Can we confess our sins directly to God, or must we go through a priest?
Can I Get Married in the Catholic Church?
Marriage is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church. As such, it is a supernatural institution, as well as a natural one. The Church, therefore, restricts sacramental marriage to men and women who meet certain requirements.
Prayer of an Engaged Couple
This beautiful prayer can help an engaged couple get into the habit of praying together before their wedding day, as they ask for the graces to build their lives together and to welcome children into their marriage.
The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick
Traditionally referred to as Extreme Unction or Last Rites, the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is administered both to the dying and to those who are gravely ill or are about to undergo a serious operation, for the recovery of their health and for spiritual strength.
The Sacrament of the Sick
The Sacrament of the Sick is a common name used for the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick.
Eucharist
The Eucharist has three meanings. Find the definition of the Eucharist here.
The Sacrament of Holy Orders
The Sacrament of Holy Orders is the continuation of Christ's priesthood, which He bestowed upon His Apostles. The three levels of the sacrament are the episcopate, the priesthood, and the diaconate.
Last Rites
Last Rites is another term, rarely used today, for the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick.
Extreme Unction
Extreme Unction is another term, rarely used today, for the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick.