Christ at Work in His Church
The sacraments are not simply religious ceremonies.
They are actions of Jesus Christ in His Church.
Through visible signs, God gives invisible grace.
They are the ordinary means by which we receive:
- Forgiveness
- Strength
- Healing
- Union with Christ
- The promise of eternal life
Each sacrament builds upon the others.
Together they form the life of a Catholic.
What Is a Sacrament?
A sacrament is an outward sign, instituted by Christ, that gives grace.
When the Church celebrates a sacrament:
Christ acts.
The grace given is not symbolic.
It is real.
The sacraments shape the whole of Christian life — from birth to death.
The Seven Sacraments
The Sacraments of Initiation
These begin and strengthen supernatural life.
Baptism
Removes original sin, gives new birth in Christ, and makes us members of the Church.
Confirmation
Strengthens and seals the grace of Baptism through the gift of the Holy Spirit.
The Eucharist
The Body and Blood of Christ, nourishing and sustaining divine life within us.
The Sacraments of Healing
These restore grace and bring spiritual strength.
Reconciliation (Confession)
Forgives sins committed after Baptism and restores sanctifying grace.
Anointing of the Sick
Strengthens those seriously ill or near death with Christ’s healing grace.
The Sacraments at the Service of Communion
These build up the Church.
Marriage
A lifelong covenant between a man and a woman, ordered to their good and the gift of children.
Holy Orders
The sacrament through which bishops, priests, and deacons are ordained for service in the Church.
The Life of Grace
The sacraments are not isolated moments.
They form a coherent life.
Baptism begins it.
The Eucharist nourishes it.
Confession restores it when it is wounded.
Confirmation strengthens it.
The Church obliges Catholics to participate in Sunday Mass and to approach the sacraments with reverence and preparation.
Sacraments presuppose faith.
They are not social customs.
They are encounters with Christ.
Preparation and Responsibility
Each sacrament requires proper preparation.
Parents, sponsors, and candidates are expected to:
- Understand what the sacrament does
- Accept the teaching of the Church
- Be willing to live the faith consistently
Preparation is not a formality.
It is spiritual formation.
Begin Here
If you are seeking a sacrament:
- Visit the relevant page below.
- Read the preparation guidelines carefully.
- Contact the parish office if you have questions.
If you are returning to the Church after some time away, you are warmly welcome. The parish is here to help you begin again.
St. Mary's, St. John Bosco and St. Edward's 