6/JESUS
6/1 THE SACRAMENTS
WHAT IS A SACRAMENT? Jesus gives us
the example of the vine and the branches. He is the true vine, his Father is
the vine grower, and we are the branches. Just as the branches must be united
to the vine to produce fruit, we must be united with Jesus to live as true
Catholics. The seven sacraments unite us
with Jesus who gives us the strength to produce fruit that results in doing
good works as Jesus did. A definition of a sacrament is an outward sign of an
invisible grace or help.
BAPTISM, CONFIRMATION, EUCHARIST.
The sacrament of Baptism makes us adopted children of God, brothers and sisters
of Jesus, temples of the Holy Spirit, and members of the Catholic Church. The
sacrament of Confirmation gives us the strength to live as disciples, friends
of Jesus. The Eucharist gives us the spiritual food needed to be faithful
Catholics as we meet problems and difficulties on our journey to heaven. These
three sacraments keep us united to Jesus.
PENANCE, ANOINTING OF THE SICK,
MARRIAGE, PRIESTHOOD. In the sacrament of Penance or Reconciliation, Jesus
forgives us our sins. In the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, Jesus
strengthens our faith to accept our sufferings as we pray for good health. In
the sacrament of Marriage, Jesus gives the married couple the help to live a
happy married life. In the sacrament of the Priesthood, Jesus helps the priest
to be a good priest by serving, caring and guiding the people as they journey
on the road of life.
