1. Sacraments celebrate many of the meaningful actions of our lives

2. Actions of Jesus
“What Christ alone did…he now does in the sacraments.”
“The saving act of Jesus is…visible through the official actions of his body, the Church.”
“Sacrament” means an “embodiment”
Jesus is the sacrament of God
The Church is the sacrament of Jesus in the world

3. Symbolic Actions Symbolic actions are more powerful than words alone
Examples:

4. Eucharistic Meal We connect most directly with Christ in the Eucharist
The meal ritually binds us together
Symbolism of Seder-Passover-Last Supper
Lamb of God Cross Resurrection
“This is my Body-Blood” “Do this… “

5. Mass
The Mass is the center of Catholic life—Where we meet Jesus and each other
Readings/rituals prescribed so they will not vary over time and across culture
Most parts date to early days of the Church
The Eucharist reminds us of the sacredness of every meal we share

6. Seven Sacraments
“Sacraments are intense experiences of the sacramentality of all life.”
Baptism
Acceptance, belonging
Symbol of water
Not magic

7. Sacraments of Initiation
Baptism
Confirmation ritual of taking adult responsibility
Eucharist

8. Sacraments of Healing
Reconciliation highlights the importance of forgiveness in our lives
Sacrament of the Sick God’s help and community’s support is available

9. Sacraments of Commitment
Marriage The support of Jesus and the community are available
Holy Orders The community commissions leaders
Sacraments are encounters with God which should lead us to see the sacredness of all of our experiences.