The term “Sacrament” is an outward sign of inward grace our physical contact with God. (McGrath, 2012, p. 157) It also could further be described as outward signs of religious formalities. There are seven types of sacraments: baptism, confirmation, Eucharist, reconciliation, marriage, holy orders, and anointing of the sick. Among various religions emphasis and significance is shown on different sacraments. For example, in some churches communion is not offered weekly, but rather on special occasions. I am going to discuss in this essay the 3 main sacraments in the Catholic Church: baptism, confirmation and the Eucharist. Each defines its own importance. In the Catholic faith these sacraments are a form of initiation into the church to unite …show more content…
Baptism in the Catholic Church is positioned; “the sheer gratuitousness of grace of salvation is particularly manifest in infant Baptism.” (McGrath, 2012, p. 168) Early on an infant is brought in and baptized in the church to wash away sin passed on from generation to generation. This ritual is typically done during the parish mass on a Sunday. The infant is dressed in white to symbolize purity of faith and cleansing; as Jesus wore white garments to the tomb after his death. This sacrament is different from other religions in that you are never un-baptized or re-baptized, the baptism is only done once and marks one’s soul. As baptism is built on in the Catholic Faith; Confirmation is the conviction that one’s soul grows in life of grace. This sacrament or initiation develops young adults into their faith. The “confirming” of faith is supported by parents and godparents making the same promises to God and the church. The focus of confirmation stands firm on the “Holy Spirit,” who through the apostles on Pentecost gave courage and divines to practice faith. A “confirmation name is given;” this symbolic change in name marks young adult to becoming adult figure in the eyes of the