The sacraments are efficacious signs of grace, instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church, by which divine life is dispensed to us. There are seven sacraments, touching all the stages and all the important moments of Christian life (see CCC 1210).
Baptism
The basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission.
Confirmation
Confirmation enriches the baptized with a special strength of the Holy Spirit. It binds us more perfectly to the Church and obliges us to spread and defend the faith by word and deed as true witnesses of Christ.
The Eucharist
The source and summit of the Christian life. In the Eucharist, the bread and wine become the true Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Jesus Christ. By receiving Holy Communion, we are united intimately with Christ and with one another.
Reconciliation
Also known as Confession or Penance. In this sacrament, through the priest's absolution, God grants pardon for sins committed after Baptism. It reconciles us with God and with the Church.
Anointing of the Sick
By the sacred anointing of the sick and the prayer of the priests the whole Church commends those who are ill to the suffering and glorified Lord, that he may raise them up and save them.
Holy Orders
The sacrament through which the mission entrusted by Christ to his apostles continues to be exercised in the Church until the end of time. It includes three degrees: episcopate (bishops), presbyterate (priests), and diaconate (deacons).
Matrimony
A lifelong partnership between a man and a woman, established for their mutual good and the procreation and education of children.
How to Become Catholic (OCIA)
Adults who wish to enter the Church are usually formed through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA, formerly called RCIA). The ordinary path includes inquiry, the catechumenate, purification and enlightenment during Lent, reception of Baptism (if needed), Confirmation, and Eucharist at the Easter Vigil, followed by a period of mystagogy.
- Inquiry: A first conversation about your questions and spiritual background.
- Catechumenate: Ongoing formation in Scripture, doctrine, prayer, and Catholic life.
- Rites: Public liturgical steps that mark growth and readiness.
- Easter Sacraments: Initiation through Baptism (if not already baptized), Confirmation, and first Holy Communion.
- Mystagogy: Continued formation after Easter as you grow in parish life.
If you are interested, contact a local Catholic parish and ask about OCIA. You do not need to know everything before you begin; a sincere desire to seek Christ is enough to start.