Sacraments are celebrations of special moments of encounter
between God and human beings. They are not, obviously, the only
occasions when human beings consciously respond to God who is
forever offering His love and friendship, but they are times when,
the Catholic Church teaches, a person's relationship with God is
assuredly initiated or deepened or strengthened or
healed.
For more information about the
sacramental preparation programs that are offered at St. Joseph's
Church click on the desired sacrament on the left side menu or
phone Lamont Dyck at 694-1944 or email me at dumbox@mac.com
The following
sections will introduce you to the Catholic Church's teaching on
the seven sacraments.
The whole liturgical life of the Church revolves around the Eucharistic sacrifice and the sacraments. (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1113)
Sacraments are "powers that come forth" from the Body of Christ, which is ever-living and life-giving. They are actions of the Holy Spirit at work in his Body, the Church. They are "the masterworks of God" in the new and everlasting covenant (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1116).
The purpose of the sacraments is to sanctify people, to build up the Body of Christ and, finally, to give worship to God. Because they are signs they also instruct. They not only presuppose faith, but by words and objects they also nourish, strengthen and express it (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1123).
The whole liturgical life of the Church revolves around the Eucharistic sacrifice and the sacraments. (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1113)
Sacraments are "powers that come forth" from the Body of Christ, which is ever-living and life-giving. They are actions of the Holy Spirit at work in his Body, the Church. They are "the masterworks of God" in the new and everlasting covenant (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1116).
The purpose of the sacraments is to sanctify people, to build up the Body of Christ and, finally, to give worship to God. Because they are signs they also instruct. They not only presuppose faith, but by words and objects they also nourish, strengthen and express it (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1123).