Catechism

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The Seven Sacraments

The Catholic Church celebrates seven sacraments as “efficacious signs of grace, instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church.”

Water being poured during a baptism ceremony.
Baptism
The gateway sacrament. Baptism cleanses original sin and makes us children of God.

Lesson (coming soon): Introduction to Baptism and its symbols (water, Chrism, light).

A dove, symbolizing the Holy Spirit, in flight.
Confirmation
Strengthening by the Holy Spirit. It completes baptismal grace, sealing us as witnesses to Christ.

Lesson (coming soon): Exploring the symbolism of anointing with oil and laying on of hands.

Chalice and host on an altar.
Eucharist
The Source and Summit of Christian life, where we receive Christ’s Body and Blood in the Mass.

Lesson (coming soon): Understanding the Last Supper, Mass prayers, and the meaning of Communion.

A person in quiet prayer in a confessional.
Penance & Reconciliation
The sacrament of forgiveness. Through confession and absolution, we receive God’s mercy and healing.

Lesson (coming soon): How to make a good confession, the role of contrition and absolution.

Hands gently anointing an elderly person's hand with oil.
Anointing of the Sick
The healing sacrament. It provides grace, strength, and forgiveness for those who are ill or elderly.

Lesson (coming soon): Ritual of anointing with oil and prayer in times of illness.

A priest's vestments and a bible on a table.
Holy Orders
Ordination. This sacrament continues Christ’s mission through bishops, priests, and deacons.

Lesson (coming soon): The roles of deacons, priests, and bishops in the Church.

Two intertwined wedding rings on a bible.
Matrimony
A covenant between a man and a woman that signifies Christ’s love for the Church.

Lesson (coming soon): The meaning of wedding vows, unity of spouses, and family life.

A dove, symbolizing the Holy Spirit, in flight.
RCIA Inquiry
Initial questions and informal introduction to the faith.

Lesson (coming soon): Exploring the symbolism of anointing with oil and laying on of hands.

A priest's vestments and a bible on a table.
Purification and Enlightenment
Final preparation during Lent, deepening prayer.

Lesson (coming soon): The roles of deacons, priests, and bishops in the Church.

Chalice and host on an altar.
Sacraments of Initiation
At Easter Vigil, reception of Baptism (if needed), Confirmation, and First Eucharist for new Catholics.

Lesson (coming soon): Understanding the Last Supper, Mass prayers, and the meaning of Communion.

A dove, symbolizing the Holy Spirit, in flight.
Post-Baptismal Catechesis (Mystagogy)
Post-Easter reflection and continued integration into the parish community.

Lesson (coming soon): Exploring the meaning of the sacraments received.

A person in quiet prayer in a confessional.
Lifelong Formation
Ongoing deepening of faith and continued integration into the life of the Church.

Lesson (coming soon): Living out the baptismal promises in daily life.