The Seven Catholic Sacraments

The Latin word sacramentum means "a sign of the sacred." The seven sacraments are ceremonies that point to what is sacred, significant and important for Christians. They are special occasions for experiencing God's saving presence. That's what theologians mean when they say that sacraments are at the same time signs and instruments of God's grace.

 

BAPTISM

For Catholics, the Sacrament of Baptism is the first step in a lifelong journey of commitment and discipleship. Whether we are baptized as infants or adults, Baptism is the Church's way of celebrating and enacting the embrace of God. Celebrated on scheduled weekends at all Liturgies. Parents are encouraged to be registered, active members of St. Mark and are required to attend Baptism preparation Classes.

CONFIRMATION

 Confirmation is a Catholic Sacrament of mature Christian commitment and a deepening of baptismal gifts. It is one of the three Sacraments of Initiation for Catholics. It is most often associated with the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

EUCHARIST

 Catholics believe the Eucharist, or Communion, is both a sacrifice and a meal. We believe in the real presence of Jesus, who died for our sins. As we receive Christ's Body and Blood, we also are nourished spiritually and brought closer to God.

RECONCILIATION

 The Catholic Sacrament of Reconciliation (also known as Penance, or Penance and Reconciliation) has three elements: conversion, confession and celebration. In it we find God's unconditional forgiveness; as a result we are called to forgive others.

Reconciliation is celebrated on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month. Begins promptly at 4:00 p.m. with community prayer and examination of conscience, followed by individual confession and absolution.

 MARRIAGE

 For Catholics, the Sacrament of Marriage, or Holy Matrimony, is a public sign that one gives oneself totally to this other person. It is also a public statement about God: the loving union of husband and wife speaks of family values and also God's values.

Couples are required to give six months notice before planning a wedding in the Parish. Please do not set a date before contacting the Priest.

 HOLY ORDERS

   In the Sacrament of Holy Orders, or Ordination, the priest being ordained vows to lead other Catholics by bringing them the sacraments (especially the Eucharist), by proclaiming the Gospel, and by providing other means to holiness.

ANOINTING of the SICK

 The Catholic Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, formerly known as Last Rites or Extreme Unction, is a ritual of healing appropriate not only for physical but also for mental and spiritual sickness.

If you know of someone who cannot attend Mass or desires a visit or the Sacrament of Anointing, call the Parish Office

Please visit USCCB's Sacraments and Sacramentals where You will find easy-to-understand articles, and answers to many common questions about the Sacraments. The more you learn about the Sacraments, the more fully you can celebrate them.