The Seven SignsLooking at the seven sacraments of the Church

Baptism

This is a sacrament of initiationThat means belonging

For Catholics it usually occurs when we are a little baby But older children and adults also receive

the sacrament You need to be Baptised before you

receive any other sacrament

The Symbols that are used

Water

Poured

New life

The Symbols that are used

White garment

Dressed

New person

The Symbols that are used

Oil

Anointed

Strength

The Symbols that are used

Candle

Lit

Christ

The Gift

Welcome to the Community of Christ

Confirmation

This is the second sacrament of initiation It occurs before First Eucharist in the

Wellington diocese it is an acknowledgement of the coming

of the Holy Spirit Usually it is given by the Bishop

The Symbols that are used

Laying on of hands

Blessing

Touched

The Symbols that are used

Chrism oil

Strength forthe journey

Anointed

The Gift

Strengthening our relationship with God Holy Spirit gives the grace to be strong

Christians

Eucharist

The third Initiation sacrament Once we have been prepared and

received Eucharist for the first time we can receive communion at every Mass that we go to

The Symbols that are used

Bread and Wine

Taken Blessed

Broken Shared

Signifies

Food and drink for the journey

Gift

Nourishment so that we grow in God’s life and have strength to go out and live a good Christian life

Penance

Also referred to as Reconciliation Confession

A sacrament of healingOften opportunities given during Advent

and Lent

Symbols Uses

Laying on of hands

Forgiveness

Touch

The Gift

Reconciles people and helps them change their lives

Allows people to know God’s unconditional love

Anointing

Used to only occur when someone was close to dying but is now given when there is need for comfort and support

A sacrament of healing

Symbols Used

Oil

Strength

Anointed

Symbols that are used

Laying on of hands

Flexibilitysoothing

Touch

The Gift

Spiritual strength, peace and courage

Marriage

The couple getting married give the sacrament to themselves

The Priest acts as the official Church witness

A sacrament of commitment

The Symbols

Rings

Unity

Exchanged them

The Gift

Love for each other will grow and thy will be loving parents

Holy Orders

This is when a man is made a priest A Sacrament of commitment The Bishop always confers this

sacrament

The symbol that is used

Touch

Ministry

Laying on of hands

The Gift

To serve the people of God To celebrate the sacramentsTo witness to God’s love in the world

Acknowledgments

Compiled by Sr Sian Owen rsj for the Archdiocese of Wellington Secondary schools

Copyright is retained by the original owners

Copyright WCEC compilation only

Not to be reproduced for profit