Saints LightThe Seven Sacraments
What a sacrament is and how each of the seven works, from Baptism to Matrimony, with the practical steps for going to Confession and a clear look at holy water, medals and scapulars.
The lessons
- What Is a Sacrament?
A sacrament is a sign Christ gave us that really does what it shows, because Christ himself acts in it. It does not depend on how holy the priest is, but it bears fruit in us when we receive it with faith.
- Why Does Baptism Matter So Much?
Baptism washes away sin, makes us God's children and members of his Church, and marks us as his forever. In an emergency anyone can baptize with water and the words naming the Trinity.
- What Does Confirmation Add?
Confirmation pours out the Holy Spirit on us as at Pentecost, completing our Baptism and strengthening us to live and speak for Christ. It is a gift, not a graduation.
- Is the Eucharist Really Jesus?
At Mass the bread and wine truly become Jesus himself, though they still look and taste the same. Jesus taught this plainly in John 6, and the Church has believed it from the start.
- How Do I Go to Confession?
Jesus gave his priests the power to forgive sins in his name. You examine your conscience, tell your sins honestly, receive a penance, say you are sorry, and hear the words of absolution, and the priest can never tell anyone.
- Is Anointing Only for the Dying?
Anointing of the Sick is for anyone facing serious illness, surgery or the weakness of old age. A priest anoints them to give strength, peace and forgiveness, so call him early.
- Why Does the Church Have Priests?
Christ chose some men to act in his person, to offer the Mass and forgive sins. Holy Orders makes them bishops, priests or deacons through the laying on of hands, handed down from the apostles.
- What Makes a Marriage a Sacrament?
In marriage the spouses give the sacrament to each other, binding themselves for life as a sign of Christ's love. An annulment does not end a marriage; it declares that a valid one never began.
- Holy Water, Medals and Scapulars: Are They Magic?
Holy water, blessings, medals and scapulars are signs the Church gives us to turn ordinary life toward God. They work through prayer and faith, not like magic charms.
Read The Sacraments in full
All 9 lessons of this course are in the Saints Light app, with Scripture, three questions each and your progress kept on your phone.
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