THE SEVEN

SACRAMENT
THEOLOGY 2
A sacrament is an effective sign of grace
given by Christ to the Church, providing
believers with divine life. These visible
rites represent and bring forth specific
graces, impacting recipients based on
their disposition.
SACRAMENT
BAPTISM
 WHAT IS BAPTISM?

Baptism is the first sacrament of initiation

into the Christian life, which cleanses a
person from original sin and makes them a
member of the Church.
HISTORY
Baptism traces its roots to Jewish purification
rituals and was instituted by Christ, who was
himself baptized by John the Baptist. The early
Church adopted it as the means of initiation into
the Christian community
WHO ARE INVOLED IN THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM?

The Baptized: The person receiving the sacrament.

Parents: Presenting their child for Baptism and committing to
raising them in the faith.
Godparents: Supporting the parents and child in their
Christian upbringing.
The Minister: A bishop, priest, or deacon typically administers
the sacrament, although in emergencies, anyone can baptize if
they follow the correct form and intention.
 WHERE DOES BAPTISM TAKE PLACE?

Baptism usually takes place in a church,

particularly at a baptismal font. However, it
can be performed in any suitable location if
necessary, such as a hospital or home,
especially in cases of emergency.
THEOLOGY

Theologically, Baptism signifies rebirth in

Christ, forgiveness of sins, and incorporation
into the body of Christ. It represents dying to
sin and rising to new life with Christ.
 WHY IS BAPTISM IMPORTANT?

Baptism is crucial in the Christian faith because it initiates an

individual into the Christian community, marking their entry
into the Church. It cleanses the person from original sin and
any personal sins they may have committed. Additionally,
baptism grants sanctifying grace, which is a share in God's
divine life, and incorporates the individual into the body of
Christ. This sacrament also imprints a permanent spiritual
mark, signifying the person's belonging to Christ forever.
THE RITE OF BAPTISM
The rite involves the use of water (matter) and
the Trinitarian formula (form): "I baptize you
in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and
of the Holy Spirit." The essential elements are
the pouring or immersion in water and the
invocation of the Holy Trinity.
SACRAMENT
CONFIRMATION
 WHAT IS CONFIRMATION?

Confirmation is one of the three sacraments of

Christian initiation, which strengthens the grace
received at Baptism. It deepens the bond with
the Church and equips the individual for active
participation in the Church’s mission.
HISTORY
Confirmation has its roots in the practices of
the early Church, where the laying on of
hands and anointing with oil were used to
confer the Holy Spirit. Initially part of a unified
rite with Baptism, it later became a distinct
sacrament.
WHO ARE INVOLED IN THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM?
The Confirmand: The person receiving the sacrament.
The Sponsor: A baptized and confirmed Catholic who
supports the confirmand.
The Minister: Typically a bishop, though a priest can
administer the sacrament with the bishop's permission.

WHERE DOES CONFIRMATION TAKE PLACE?

Confirmation usually takes place in a church during a special

Confirmation Mass or within the context of a regular Mass.
Effects of Confirmation
Confirmation bestows the Holy Spirit, strengthens the grace received at
Baptism, and deepens the confirmand's bond with the Church. It empowers
the individual to be a true witness of Christ.
Qualities of Christian Witness
A confirmed Christian is called to exhibit faith, courage, and a commitment to
Christ's mission, living out the values of the Gospel in daily life.
Age of Confirmation
The appropriate age for Confirmation varies, but it is often administered to
adolescents or young adults who have reached the age of reason.
THEOLOGY
Theologically, Confirmation signifies the gift of
the Holy Spirit, empowering the confirmed to
witness to Christ and live a mature Christian life.
It completes the process of initiation, making
the person a fully initiated member of the
Church.
 WHY IS CONFIRMATION IMPORTANT?
Confirmation is important because it strengthens the individual's bond
with the Church, bestows the Holy Spirit to enable active participation
in the Church’s mission, and completes the grace received at Baptism,
equipping the individual for a mature Christian life.

CONFIRMATION’S RELATION TO CHRIST

AND THE CHURCH
Confirmation unites the confirmand more closely to Christ and the
Church, enhancing their participation in the Church's mission and
community life.
THE RITE OF CONFIRMATION

The essential elements of the rite include the

laying on of hands, the anointing with chrism
oil on the forehead, and the words, "Be sealed
with the Gift of the Holy Spirit." This rite
signifies the bestowal of the Holy Spirit.
CHRIST, THE LIVING
BREAD OF LIFE: THE
EUCHARIST
 WHAT IS EUCHARIST?
The Eucharist is a sacrament that commemorates
the Last Supper, in which bread and wine are
consecrated to become the body and blood of
Christ. This sacrament is central to Catholic
worship and is a memorial of Christ’s sacrifice.
HISTORY
The institution of the Eucharist dates back to
the Last Supper, where Jesus broke bread and
shared wine with His apostles, instructing
them to do this in memory of Him. Early
Christians adopted this practice, making it the
core of their communal worship.
 THANKSGIVING WORSHIP

Trinitarian
The Eucharist is a prayer of thanksgiving to the Holy Trinity.
Christ, the Center
Christ is the focal point of the Eucharistic celebration,
commemorating His sacrifice.
Our Spiritual Worship
The Eucharist represents the spiritual worship of the faithful.
Immersed in Daily Life
The Eucharist influences and sanctifies the daily lives of believers.
WHO ARE INVOLED IN THE SACRAMENT OF
EUCHARIST?

The Celebrant: A bishop or priest who presides over the

Eucharistic celebration.
The Congregation: The faithful who participate in the Mass
and receive Holy Communion.
WHERE DOES EUCHARIST TAKE PLACE?

The Eucharist is usually celebrated in a church during the

Mass, which is the central liturgical service of the Catholic
Church.
THEOLOGY
The Eucharist is considered the source and
summit of Christian life. It represents Christ’s
real presence and His sacrifice, offering grace
and spiritual nourishment to believers. It
embodies the unity of the Church as the
mystical body of Christ.
 WHY IS EUCHARIST IMPORTANT?

The sacrament of the Eucharist is important because it is the

source and summit of Christian life. It commemorates Christ's
sacrifice, making present the mystery of His passion, death, and
resurrection. The Eucharist strengthens the unity of the Church,
nourishes spiritual life, and brings believers into deeper
communion with Christ. Through this sacrament, Catholics
receive grace, are united with the body of Christ, and are
empowered to live out their faith in daily life. It is also a foretaste
of the heavenly banquet, providing hope for eternal life.
 THE RITE OF EUCHARIST
The essential elements of the Eucharistic rite
include the consecration of bread and wine.
The celebrant, typically a priest or bishop,
pronounces the words of institution: "This is
my body... This is my blood." The form (words)
and matter (bread and wine) are crucial to the
sacrament.
SACRAMENT
MARRIAGE
 WHAT IS MARRIAGE?
Marriage, as understood in the Catholic faith, is a
sacrament where a baptized man and a baptized woman
enter into a lifelong union, committing themselves to
each other in love and fidelity. It is both a natural
institution and a sacred covenant established by God,
intended for the mutual support of the spouses and the
procreation and upbringing of children.
 SACRAMENT OF MARRIAGE
Sacrament of marriage as a sacred covenant between a baptized man and
woman, instituted by God for the purpose of mutual love, support, and
procreation. It emphasizes the indissolubility of marriage, meaning that the
bond established by the sacrament cannot be broken except by death.
Marriage is viewed as a reflection of the love between Christ and the
Church, and it is meant to be a lifelong commitment characterized by
fidelity, mutual respect, and self-giving. The sacrament of marriage is
celebrated within the context of the Church community, with the couple
receiving the grace and blessings of God to fulfill their vows and live out
their married life in accordance with Christian values.
 HISTORY
Throughout history, marriage has been recognized
across cultures as a fundamental social institution. In
Christianity, marriage has been revered as a holy union
since early times, with roots in both Old and New
Testament teachings. Over centuries, cultural practices
surrounding marriage have evolved, but its core
elements of commitment, fidelity, and the union of man
and woman have remained foundational.
WHO ARE INVOLED IN THE SACRAMENT OF
MARRIAGE ?
The Couple: The bride and groom are the primary participants in the sacrament,
as they freely exchange vows and commit to a lifelong union of love and fidelity.
The Priest or Deacon: A priest or deacon presides over the marriage ceremony,
witnessing the exchange of vows and blessing the union of the couple in the
name of the Church.
The Church Community:The gathered community of believers serves as
witnesses to the marriage covenant, offering prayers and support for the couple
as they begin their married life together.
God:Ultimately, marriage is viewed as a sacred covenant established by God, and
His presence is invoked during the ceremony through prayers and blessings,
symbolizing His involvement in the union of the couple.
 WHERE
Where does marriage take place? Ideally, marriage takes
place within the church building, symbolizing the couple’s
commitment before God and the Christian community. The
sacred space of the church signifies the presence of Christ
and the Church in the sacrament. However, the Church
acknowledges that there can be valid reasons for celebrating
marriage outside the church building, such as in cases of
pastoral necessity or personal circumstances.
THEOLOGY
The theology of marriage in the Catholic Church emphasizes
that it is a sacrament instituted by Christ, reflecting the
relationship between Christ and the Church. Through
marriage, spouses are called to live out their vocation to
holiness and to support each other in their journey towards
God. The sacrament of marriage confers grace upon the
couple, helping them to fulfill their duties and responsibilities
towards each other and their children.
 WHY IS MARRIAGE IMPORTANT?
Marriage is important because it is a sacred covenant established by God
between a man and a woman. It is a reflection of the love between Christ and the
Church, embodying the principles of mutual love, fidelity, and self-giving.
Marriage provides a stable foundation for the family, where children are
welcomed, nurtured, and raised in the faith. It is through marriage that
individuals can experience the fullness of human relationships, grow in holiness,
and contribute to the building of a society rooted in love and solidarity.
Additionally, marriage serves as a means of sanctification for the spouses,
helping them to grow in virtue and deepen their relationship with God.
Ultimately, marriage is important because it is a sacred vocation that calls
couples to live out their love in service to one another and to God.
 THE RITE OF MARRIAGE
The Rite of Marriage includes essential components:
Form: This involves the vows exchanged by the couple, where
they freely and publicly consent to enter into the marriage
covenant.
Matter: The couple themselves are the matter of the sacrament,
meaning they are the ones who enter into the sacramental bond.

The presence of witnesses, typically two, and a priest or deacon who

officiates the ceremony are also integral parts of the Rite of Marriage.
SACRAMENT
HOLY ORDERS
 WHAT IS HOLY ORDERS?
Holy Orders is the sacrament through which a
baptized man is ordained for permanent ministry in
the Church as a bishop, priest, or deacon. It confers a
sacred power and authority to exercise various
essential functions in the Church's mission of
sanctification, teaching, and governing.
 HISTORY
The institution of Holy Orders has its roots in the ministry
of Jesus Christ, who appointed the Apostles as the first
bishops and priests. Early Christian communities
developed structures of ordained ministry to ensure the
continuity of leadership and sacramental life. Over time,
the Church established specific rites and norms for
ordination, adapting to different cultural and historical
contexts while maintaining the apostolic succession.
WHO ARE INVOLED IN THE SACRAMENT OF
HOLY ORDER ?

The sacrament involves:

The bishop who ordains (consecrates) the
candidate, assisted by other bishops, if present, as a
sign of unity with the College of Bishops.
The candidate for ordination who receives the
sacrament and commits himself to a life of service in
the ordained ministry.
 WHERE DOES HOLY ORDERS TAKE PLACE?

Ordinarily, the sacrament of Holy Orders is conferred

within the context of the Eucharistic liturgy (Mass),
symbolizing the connection between the ordained
ministry and the celebration of the Eucharist. It typically
occurs in a church or cathedral, where the community
gathers to witness and participate in the ordination rite.
THEOLOGY
The theology of Holy Orders emphasizes its
sacramental nature as a visible sign instituted by Christ
himself. Through ordination, the ordained minister
receives a sacred character or indelible mark on his
soul, configuring him to Christ the High Priest and
enabling him to act in persona Christi (in the person of
Christ) in offering the sacraments, preaching the
Gospel, and shepherding the faithful.
 WHY IS HOLY ORDERS IMPORTANT?
Holy Orders is crucial for several reasons:
Sacramental Ministry: It ensures the continuity of the Church's
sacramental life, especially the Eucharist and reconciliation, which are
central to the spiritual nourishment and reconciliation of the faithful.
Pastoral Leadership: Ordained ministers, as successors to the Apostles,
have a responsibility to teach, govern, and sanctify the Church, guiding
believers in their faith journey and providing pastoral care.
Unity and Governance: Through the hierarchy of bishops, priests, and
deacons, Holy Orders maintains the unity and structure of the Church,
fostering communion among believers and promoting the Church's
mission of evangelization and service to society.
 THE RITE OF HOLY ORDERS
Form: The essential elements are the bishop's laying on
of hands and the specific prayer of consecration that
invokes the Holy Spirit and confers the grace of the
sacrament.
Matter: The matter is the laying on of hands by the
bishop upon the candidate, signifying the transmission
of the office and grace of Holy Orders.
 SACRAMENT
RECONCILIATION
 WHAT IS RECONCILIATION?
Reconciliation, also known as Confession or Penance,
is a sacrament through which a baptized person
receives forgiveness for sins committed after
baptism. It involves the penitent's repentance,
confession of sins to a priest, absolution by the priest,
and penance to repair the harm caused by sin.
 HISTORY
The sacrament has evolved from early Church practices
of public penance for grave sins to the private confession
we know today. Initially, those who committed serious
sins underwent a public penance process. Over
centuries, especially by the Middle Ages, the practice
became more private and accessible, allowing individuals
to confess their sins directly to a priest.
 WHO ARE INVOLED IN THE SACRAMENT OF
RECONCILIATION ?
The Penitent: The individual confessing their sins and seeking
forgiveness.
The Priest (Confessor): The ordained minister who listens to
the confession, provides guidance, and grants absolution.
WHERE DOES RECONCILATION TAKE PLACE?

Reconciliation typically occurs in a church, either in a confessional

booth or a designated private room, allowing for confidentiality and
a personal encounter with Christ through the priest.
THEOLOGY
Reconciliation is seen as an act of God’s mercy and a
means to restore the relationship between the sinner,
God, and the Church. It provides spiritual healing and
strength, enabling the penitent to overcome sin and
grow in holiness. The sacrament emphasizes God's
infinite mercy and the transformative power of His
grace.
WHY IS RECONCILIATION IMPORTANT?

Reconciliation is vital for spiritual well-being, as it

restores the penitent's relationship with God and
the Church. It brings inner peace, spiritual renewal,
and the grace to resist future temptations. By
participating in this sacrament, Catholics
experience God’s mercy and are encouraged to live
a life of holiness and virtue.
 THE RITE OF CONFIRMATION
The rite consists of several key components:
1. Contrition: The penitent feels genuine remorse for their sins.
2. Confession: The penitent verbally confesses sins to a priest.
3. Absolution: The priest, acting in the person of Christ, grants
forgiveness through the prayer of absolution.
4. Satisfaction (Penance): The penitent performs acts of
penance assigned by the priest, which may include prayers,
fasting, or acts of charity, to make amends for the sins
committed.
SACRAMENT ANOINTING
OF THE SICK
 WHAT IS ANOINTING ?
Anointing of the Sick is a sacrament that
provides spiritual and sometimes physical
healing, as well as strength and comfort to those
who are seriously ill or facing surgery. It involves
prayers and anointing with oil by a priest.
 ANOINTING OF THE SICK
In Christianity, each sacrament provides a specific form of
healing. Marriage fosters selflessness, Confirmation builds
courage in expressing faith, and Penance reconciles wrongs.
The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, however, uniquely
offers Christ's comfort to the seriously ill. Healing in this
context isn't solely about medical cures; it encompasses
spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being, nurturing one's
full potential in life and relationship with God and others.
 HISTORY
The origins of this sacrament trace back to the early
Christian Church. The Epistle of James (James 5:14-15)
mentions the practice of anointing the sick with oil and
prayers for their healing. Over time, this sacrament
evolved from being primarily for physical healing to also
emphasizing spiritual strengthening and preparation for
death.
 WHO ARE INVOLED IN THE SACRAMENT OF
ANOINTING ?

The Sick Person: The individual receiving the sacrament.

The Priest: The ordained minister who administers the sacrament.

WHERE DOES ANOINTING OF THE SICK TAKE PLACE?

The sacrament can be administered anywhere, such as in a

hospital, home, or church, depending on the situation and the
needs of the sick person.
 WHO ARE THE MINISTERS OF THE
SACRAMENT OF ANOINTINF OF THE SICK?

The ministers authorized to administer the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick are
bishops and priests. The sacrament typically begins with a penitential rite followed by the
Liturgy of the Word. During the sacrament, the priest places hands on the sick person's
head and anoints their forehead and hands with blessed Oil of the Sick, invoking God's
grace and mercy. For those approaching death, the Church provides Penance, Anointing
of the Sick, and the Eucharist as Viaticum (spiritual nourishment for the journey to
eternal life). These rituals are considered powerful aids in preparing for a good death,
connecting the person's suffering and dying to Christ's Paschal Mystery.
Regarding forgiveness of sins in this sacrament, it is the Triune God who forgives: the
Father reconciles us through Christ, who bestowed upon his apostles the Holy Spirit for
the forgiveness of sins.
 WHEN
When should we receive the Sacrament of the Anointing of
the Sick?
The proper time for receiving this holy anointing has certainly
arrived when the believer begins to be in danger of death
because of illness or old age. Each time a Christian falls
seriously ill, he may receive the Anointing of the Sick, and also
when, after he has received it, the illness worsens.
THEOLOGY
Theologically, the Anointing of the Sick is a sign of
God's mercy and a means of grace. It unites the sick
person with the suffering of Christ, offering them
consolation and spiritual healing. The sacrament also
provides forgiveness of sins if the sick person was
unable to receive the sacrament of Reconciliation.
WHY IS ANOINTING OF THE SICK IMPORTANT?

The Anointing of the Sick is important because it

provides the sick person with spiritual strength,
peace, and courage to endure their illness. It offers
forgiveness of sins and, if God wills, physical
healing. This sacrament also prepares the person
for passing into eternal life, making it a profound
source of grace and comfort.
 THE RITE OF ANOINTING
Form: The prayer of anointing, which includes the
words of the priest as he anoints the forehead and
hands of the sick person.
Matter: The blessed oil (Oil of the Sick), which is used
during the anointing. The rite typically includes the
laying on of hands, the reading of Scripture, the prayer
of faith, and the anointing itself.
Thankyou for
listening!
Let us pray