1. The Sacraments
A sacrament is an
external and sensible
sign, instituted by
Christ, that causes the
grace it signifies.
2. Sacraments in the Old Testament
Through the action of the Holy
Spirit, certain sacramental rites in
the Old Law prefigured the
sacraments of the New Law.
Circumcision (Baptism)
Paschal Lamb (Hoy Eucharist)
Various Purification and Expiation
Consecration of Levites
These rites, however did not confer
3. The Institution of the Sacraments by Christ
God is the Principal author of all the
Sacraments.
He established the sacraments through
the humanity of Christ.
All of the Sacraments were instituted by
Christ (Council of Trent)
Christ so specifically determined the
matter and form of the Sacraments that
it is not licit to substantially change
them.
4. Matter Form and Minister
Matter: is the material or the sensible
action or gesture.
Form: the accompanying words that
declare the special meaning of that
external action or gesture.
Minister: minister is an icon and a
representative of Christ.
5. Necessity of the Sacraments
The sacraments are necessary for
salvation
Christian Community – Holy Orders
and matrimony
Individual – Baptism, Penance,
Eucharist, Confirmation, and Extreme
Unction
Without them, there is no
salvation
6. Effects of the Sacraments
The Sacraments produce supernatural
grace.
Sanctifying Grace - a free gift of God
that produces a supernatural
participation in the divine nature, thus
making us children of God.
Sacramental Grace – sacramental
grace can be described as the right to
receive actual graces needed to fulfil
7. Minister of the Sacraments
Icon and representative of Christ
the priest.
Only a validly consecrated man, or
at least one lawfully chosen for this
purpose by a legitimate authority,
can administer the sacraments.
Ordinary minister – by his office or
position has the authority.
Extraordinary minister – can
8. Obligation of the
Ministers
Sacred ministers may not
deny the sacraments to
those who opportunely ask
for them, are properly
disposed and are not
prohibited by law from
receiving them.