Sacraments in Christianity

Definition of a Sacrament

A sacrament is a religious ritual believed to transmit spiritual grace directly to a participant by God’s will.
Sacraments are seen as outward signs of an inward grace, that is, they have both visible and invisible effects.
They act as a bridge between the earthly and spiritual realms, allowing believers to experience God’s presence and action more deeply.

There are seven sacraments in the Roman Catholic and some Orthodox churches: Baptism, Eucharist (Communion), Confirmation, Reconciliation (Confession), Anointing of the Sick, Marriage, and Holy Orders.
Most Protestant churches only recognise two sacraments, Baptism and Eucharist (Communion), as they are directly instituted by Jesus in the New Testament.

Baptism signifies entering the Christian faith. It’s often performed on infants, but can be carried out at any age.
Baptism involves the use of water, symbolising purification and the washing away of sin.
It’s also a sign of the baptism of Jesus and his purification before beginning his public ministry.

The Eucharist (also known as Communion or the Lord’s Supper) commemorates Jesus’ Last Supper.
Christians believe that the bread and wine used in the Eucharist are transformed into the body and blood of Christ.
This sacrament is a demonstration of faith and an act of remembrance, gratitude and reconnection with the crucifixion of Jesus.

Confirmation is a ritual where a baptised person affirm their faith and is ‘sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit’.
Reconciliation involves the confession of sins to a Priest, followed by absolution.
Anointing of the Sick imparts comfort and spiritual healing to someone who is seriously ill or near death.
Marriage is a covenant between a man and a woman, signifying their commitment and love in the eyes of God.
Holy Orders is the sacrament through which one becomes a priest, bishop, or deacon.