IMMACULATE CONCEPTION

The sacrament of Baptism, is the first of three sacraments by which one becomes Catholic. In Baptism we receive new life in Christ. Baptism takes away original sin and gives us a new birth in the Holy Spirit. Its sign is the pouring of water.

In the Sacrament of Confirmation, one is empowered by the gifts of the Holy Spirit; wisdom, understanding, piety, knowledge, fortitude, counsel, and fear of the Lord. Confirmation seals our life of faith in Jesus. Its signs are the laying on of hands on a person’s head, most often by a bishop, and the anointing with oil. Like Baptism, Confirmation is received only once.

In Holy Orders men are ordained as priests, deacons, or bishops. Priests serve as spiritual leaders of their communities, and deacons serve to remind us of our baptismal call to help others. Bishops carry on the teachings of the apostles. The signs of this sacrament are the laying on of hands and anointing with oil by the bishop.

Reconciliation is the Sacrament by which an individual is able to restore themselves to grace. Through Penance we receive God’s forgiveness. Forgiveness requires being sorry for our sins. In Penance we receive Jesus’ healing grace through absolution by the priest. The signs of this sacrament are our confession of sins and the words of absolution.

In Matrimony a baptized man and woman are united with each other as a sign of the unity between Jesus and his Church. Matrimony requires the consent of the couple, as expressed in the marriage promises. The couple and their wedding rings are the signs of this sacrament.

The Most Precious Body and Blood of Christ, the Holy Eucharist, is the source and summit of our Faith, the life source for all the Church is and does. Its signs are the bread and wine we receive—the Body and Blood of Christ.

The Sacrament of Anointing strengthens the individual, body and soul, when dealing with serious illness.  This sacrament unites a sick person’s suffering with that of Jesus and brings forgiveness of sins. Oil, a symbol of strength, is the sign of this sacrament. A person is anointed with oil and receives the laying on of hands from a priest.