Before we learn about the seven Catholic sacraments, we need to learn about what a sacrament is.

What is a sacrament?  A sacrament is an outward and visible sign of inward and invisible grace.

 a special appreciation of the sacred (that is, God) in the world In our daily class prayer we say: “Let us remember that we are in the holy presence of God”

 lack of awareness of the sacred in everyday life  Causes of sacramental dullness:  Busyness, distraction  Pain and suffering  Ignorance: Not knowing what to look for or where to look

1. Listening to God Examples: mental prayer, liturgical prayer, retreats, detention

2. Responding all true listening calls for a response an experience of God calls us to respond by treating ourselves, others, the world, and God differently Rock for Peace Loaves and FishesKairos

Sacramental moments  After developing sacramental awareness, we may begin to see God and the sacred in our daily lives “Finding God in all things” St. Ignatius of Loyola  These sacramental moments can come after long practice…  Or can be sudden and unexpected “Look at the stars…” “Remember who you are, Simba…”

 According to the Church, a Sacrament is… An outward and visible sign of inward and invisible grace ◦ Outward and Visible Sign  Each sacrament is visible and tangible  Each sacrament uses signs, symbols, and rituals ◦ Inward and Invisible Grace  Each sacrament sanctifies the Church as whole and the individuals who receive it.

 Routines are sets of repeated actions without deeper meaning  Rituals, while being a set of repeated actions, have several characteristics that distinguish them from mere routines.  The sacraments are rituals (obviously).

 Movements & Gestures with Meaning  Repeated Actions  Symbolic Celebrations  Important Event  Significant Words  Links to the Past  Communal Actions  Participation, Not Observation