These are external signs instituted by Christ to bring God's life to the believer. Each sacrament has a different purpose which is clearly understood through the external rite. The Catholic Church teaches that there are seven sacraments.

Sacrament of Baptism
Is administered by the pouring of water or immersion, together with the words, "I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. " Baptism forgives all sins and sends the Holy Spirit into the believers soul.

Sacrament of Confirmation
Is administered by the laying on of hands, the anointing with Holy Chrism and the words, "Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit." Confirmation completes Baptism, initiating a deeper relationship to the Holy Trinity through the anointing of the Spirit.

Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist
Was instituted by Christ at the Last Supper. During the Eucharistic Prayer at every Mass, the bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Jesus. This gift is called the Real Presence.

The Sacraments of Healing

Sacrament of Reconciliation
Is the sacrament by which Jesus, through His Church, forgives sins which are committed after Baptism. The sacrament is sometimes called Confession because it requires the confessing of sins to a priest

Sacrament of the Annointing of the Sick
Is administered by an anointing of oil and prescribed prayers (too long to mention here). This anointing forgives sins, often heals, and, at times, prepares the person to accept death.

Two Sacraments of Service
All of the above five sacraments can be received by every Catholic. The remaining two, Matrimony and Holy Orders, are sacraments that are based upon a call from God to serve Him in a consecrated state.

Sacrament of Matrimony -
Is administered by the vows made publicly by the two spouses. The sacrament bestows special helps to the couple to fulfill this lifelong commitment to God and to each other.

Sacrament of Holy Orders -
Is administered by the bishop through the laying on of hands. Through this sacrament a man becomes a priest and shares in all the powers intended by Christ, especially the power to forgive sins, consecrate the Eucharist, anoint the sick and, at times, to confirm. Holy Orders is also the basis for sharing in the teaching authority of the Church.