The word sacrament is a
direct translation of the Greek word mysterion. The sacraments are called
mysteries in the Eastern Churches. The Catholic Church recognizes seven
sacraments; Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Eucharist, Penance, Anointing of the
Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony. The three sacraments of Christian Initiation
are Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist. The two sacraments of Healing are
Penance and Anointing of the Sick, and the two sacraments of Vocation are
Holy Orders and Matrimony. Three sacraments, Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy
Orders, are given only once, as they render a permanent seal or character upon one's
soul.Each sacrament consists of a visible external rite, which is composed of matter and form, the matter being the action, such as the pouring of water, and the form being the words spoken by the minister. Each sacramental rite confers a special ecclesial effect and sacramental grace appropriate for each sacrament. The sacraments occur at pivotal events and give meaning to a person's life.
