Sacraments of the Catholic Church - The Seven Sacraments

The Catholic Church recognizes seven sacraments, instituted by Christ. These are outward signs of inward grace acting in our souls. They are The Seven Sacraments.

The seven sacraments—Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Communion, Confession, Marriage, Holy Orders, and the Anointing of the Sick—are the heart of the life of the Catholic Church. When we participate in them worthily, each sacrament provides us with graces—with the life of God in our soul.

The sacraments of Initiation Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Communion - are the three primary sacraments, on which the rest of our life as a Christian depends.

The Sacrament of Baptism

The Sacrament of Baptism, one of the three sacraments of initiation, is the first of the seven sacraments of the Roman Catholic Church. It removes the guilt and effects of Original Sin and incorporates the baptized into the Church, the Mystical Body of Christ on earth. Baptisms at St. Mary’s Parish are done every Sunday at 1:30pm. Arrangements must be made in advance to have your baby baptized. Because of the large number of Baptisms in this parish we recommend that you call as early as possible. Attendance at a Baptismal Catechesis is required. This is an instructional meeting which discusses the Sacrament of Baptism, conducted by members of the parish. For more information, or to make an appointment, call the Rectory at (508) 528-0020.

The Sacrament of Confirmation

The Sacrament of Confirmation is the second of the three sacraments of initiation. Confirmation perfects our baptism and brings us the graces of the Holy Spirit that were granted to the Apostles on Pentecost Sunday. Confirmation catechesis begins in the ninth grade and continues through the tenth grade culminating in the celebration of the sacrament in the fall of the eleventh grade. Candidates for confirmation are encouraged in their life of prayer by attending a retreat at the parish; participation in a project of Christian service of their choice is another aspect of the program designed to challenge the candidate to model Jesus’ life of sacrificial service. Adults who have never been confirmed may need to take Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (R.C.I.A.) class , but your situation should be discussed with a priest.

The Sacrament of Holy Communion

The third of the three sacraments of initiation, the Sacrament of Holy Communion is the reception of Christ's Body and Blood. This sacrament is the source of great graces that sanctify us and help us grow in the likeness of Jesus Christ. Catholics are encouraged to receive the Eucharist often. See Mass times.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation

The Sacrament of Reconciliation is a common name used for the Sacrament of Confession. The Sacrament of Penance is another name (rarely used today) for the Sacrament of Confession. Reconciliation is held on Saturdays from 3:00 PM to 3:45 PM., First Fridays from 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM, and by appointment. www.thelightisonforyou.org

The Sacrament of Marriage

Marriage, a lifelong union between a man and a woman for procreation and mutual support, is a natural institution, but it is also one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church. It reflects the union of Jesus Christ and His Church. The Sacrament of Matrimony is another term for marriage and is the more proper name for the Sacrament of Marriage.
Arrangements should be made one year in advance. You should call the rectory to set your date as early as possible at 508-528-0020. This date is tentative until you have met with the priest. You must call for an appointment with the priest to fill out papers in preparation for your wedding. Participation in a Marriage Preparation Program is required. A program is offered at St. Mary’s twice each year, in the spring and fall. Other programs in the Archdiocese can be substituted.

The Sacrament of Holy Orders

The Sacrament of Holy Orders is the continuation of Christ's priesthood, which He bestowed upon His Apostles. The three levels of the sacrament are the episcopate, the priesthood, and the diaconate. If you think you have a vocation, a priest is willing to speak with you.

The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick

Traditionally referred to as Extreme Unction or Last Rites, the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, and Sacrament of the Sick, is administered both to the dying and to those who are gravely ill or are about to undergo a serious operation, for the recovery of their health and for spiritual strength. Sacrament of the Sick is administered by the priests of St. Mary’s Parish upon request. Also, during the course of the year communal celebrations occur at nursing homes, senior residences and at the Feast of St. Rocco.