Sacraments are sacred acts of divine origin that serve to convey specific spiritual blessings and grace to individuals, who by their participation in the sacred act, receive an otherworldly blessing Sacraments are set forth by the Church, and most often involve a symbolic physical act, such as the eating of bread and the drinking of wine, or the pouring of water over the recipient, accompanied by prayer and the declaration of the divine blessing. Sacraments are thought to have both a physical and spiritual component, thus uniting the physical world with the spiritual one.
Throughout Christian history, the number of sacraments has varied, though most Churches recognize seven, namely baptism, confirmation, holy Communion, anointing of the sick, matrimony, holy orders and the rite of Extreme Unction or Last Rites. Here are five of the best examples of the sacrament.
Baptism is the most commonly celebrated sacrament, signifying a person’s acceptance into the faith. It is usually performed with water and is symbolic of the forgiveness of sins and of new life. Historically, it is the first sacrament a person takes part in, and it is associated with the cleansing and rebirth of the individual and a commitment to the Christian faith.
Confirmation is the second sacrament, and is usually presided over by a bishop. It is a sacrament of full acceptance into the Church. The individual being confirmed makes a personal public affirmation of faith and is anointed with chrism oil, confirming their unity with the Holy Spirit.
Holy Communion is a sacrament of unity and remembrance. In it, members of the Church consume bread and wine, which are symbols of Christ’s body and blood. It is through partaking in the sacrament that members can spiritually unite with each other and with Christ.
The Anointing of the Sick is a sacrament in which the infirmed are anointed with oil and with prayers of healing and restoration are spoken over them. It is a comfort to those suffering physical, mental or spiritual afflictions.
Matrimony is a covenant between a man and woman, in which their union is blessed by the Church and by God. This sacrament is a promise of faithfulness and mutual support within a marriage.
Finally, the sacrament of Extreme Unction, or Last Rites, is received at the end of life. Extreme Unction is a way for the person to receive forgiveness of sins and to be anointed with oil as a sign of love, grace and mercy.
Sacraments have been celebrated in the Christian faith for centuries and are a crucial part of both the individual and communal spiritual lives. While the number of sacraments may vary, these five sacraments are among the most central, and each provides an opportunity for individuals to deepen their relationship with God.