Through Holy Orders, men are ordained to serve the Church faithfully as deacons, priests, or bishops, guiding the community in faith
The Catholic Church teaches that there are seven sacraments, each instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church. These are not mere rituals or symbols; they are encounters with Christ Himself. Through the sacraments, God gives us grace—a share in His divine life—to help us grow in holiness, remain faithful, and live out our vocation.
The seven sacraments are:
- Baptism
- Eucharist (Holy Communion)
- Confirmation
- Reconciliation (Confession)
- Anointing of the Sick
- Matrimony (Marriage)
- Holy Orders
These sacraments are traditionally grouped into three categories:
- Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist
- Sacraments of Healing: Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick
- Sacraments at the Service of Communion: Matrimony, Holy Orders
Each plays a unique and essential role in our spiritual life and our relationship with God and the Church.