God is Grace

In Catholicism, grace is understood as a free and unmerited gift from God, a sharing in His divine life and love.

The Sacraments are the primary means through which this grace is received and experienced by individuals.

They are considered "outward signs of inward grace", tangible rituals that symbolize and convey spiritual realities.

Each Sacrament imparts specific graces: Each Sacrament is believed to provide particular graces tailored to its purpose. For example, Reconciliation restores sanctifying grace after mortal sin and strengthens one against temptation, while the Eucharist deepens communion with God and

nourishes spiritual life.

The 7 Sacraments of the Catholic Church

Initiation - Healing - Service

The Catholic Church recognizes seven sacraments. They are outward, visible signs that convey God's grace and help individuals to grow in holiness and draw closer to him. They are considered not merely symbolic, but actual encounters with Christ that impart his divine life and healing. 

At Saint Brigid's we want to help engage you in your sacramental life between and beyond receiving a Sacrament for the first time. Our faith and our lives are richer when we celebrate the gifts we have. Whether you’re here to prepare to receive a Sacrament or learn more about them, we are here for you to make it a personal and meaningful journey. Please click below on the headings below to learn more about each.

Sacraments of Initiation

These sacraments mark a person's entry into the Catholic Church and establish the foundation of Christian life. To learn more, click on each heading.

Baptism: The first Sacrament received, it washes away original sin and any past personal sins, incorporates the baptized person into the Church, and marks them as belonging to Christ. It is considered the doorway to all other sacraments.

Confirmation: Strengthens the grace received in Baptism, providing a special outpouring of the Holy Spirit and empowering the individual to profess and spread the faith.

Eucharist (Holy Communion): The central Sacrament of Catholic worship, it involves receiving the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ in the form of consecrated bread and wine, deepening one's relationship with Christ and renewing the covenant of grace. It nourishes and strengthens the faithful on their spiritual journey. 

Sacraments of Healing

These Sacraments offer spiritual healing and strength, particularly in the face of sin and illness.

Reconciliation (Penance or Confession):  Provides forgiveness for sins committed after Baptism, enabling individuals to reconcile with God and the Church through confession to a priest and a commitment to amendment.

Anointing of the Sick: Administered to those seriously ill or facing death, it offers spiritual comfort, healing (if it is God's will), and unites the person's suffering with that of Christ. 

Sacraments at the Service of Communion and Mission

These Sacraments are received by individuals called to a particular mission within the Church and for the service of the community. 

Marriage (Matrimony): A Sacrament that joins a baptized man and woman in a lifelong covenant of love and faithfulness, it represents the love between Christ and the Church and confers special grace to help them live out their vows and raise their children in the faith.

Holy Orders:   Through this Sacrament, baptized men are ordained as deacons, priests, and bishops to serve the Church in teaching, sanctifying, and governing the People of God. 

In essence, the sacraments are vital to the Catholic faith because they are considered the primary means by which God communicates his grace, strengthens faith, fosters intimacy with Christ, and builds up the Body of Christ, the Church. They are seen as essential for navigating the challenges of life, growing in holiness, and ultimately achieving salvation.