Sacraments

Sacraments

A Sacrament, in a very broad sense of term, combines two elements: one visible, the other invisible  –   one can be seen,  or tasted,  or touched, or heard while the other remains unseen to the eyes of the flesh.  It is an invisible grace we receive through a visible rite sign or substance.

In Baptism the substance is water by which we receive the second birth from Water and Spirit.

In Confirmation the substance is the oil of Myron, by which the Holy Spirit dwells in us.

In Confession the sign is the confessing person, who accepts the prayer of absolution at the end of Confession to gain forgiveness of sins.

In Communion the substances are the bread, which is the Holy Body and wine, which is Precious Blood of Emmanuel our God.

In Unction of sick  the substance is the oil, by which we receive physical and psychological remedy.

In Matrimony the sign is the bride and groom who receive the prayers, so the Holy Spirit dwells upon them and unites them in body and spirit.

In Priesthood  the sign is the ordained person, who accepts the prayers of the Sacrament of Priesthood and the laying of hands for a certain priestly rank, to gain the grace for starting church services - whether Sacraments or authority for various church matters and management.

The  Holy  Spirit  works in the  church  through  the  7  SACRAMENTS, giving us His gifts, blessings and comfort,  and teaches  us and guides us to the way of truth.           “But the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in  My  name,  He will  teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you” (John 14:26).                                                 

“Do not  seek the  perfection of  the  law in  human  virtues,  for it is  not found perfect in them. Its perfection is hidden in the Cross of Christ. “                                   

(St. Mark the Ascetic)