What Does The Word Sacrament Mean?

The English word sacrament is derived from the Latin word sacramentum which means to 'make sacred'. It is a word that has much meaning in Christianity- it pertains to a rite that is believed to mediate divine grace. It is considered to be one of the mysteries of the faith. It is defined as an outward sign of an inward grace.

Different sects of Christianity practice and believe in different sacraments. The two most widely practiced and accepted sacraments are the sacrament of Baptism and the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist. Churches belonging to the Catholic tradition like the Holy Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox, Eastern Catholic, Oriental Orthodox, Old Catholic and Independent Catholic- practice a total of seven sacraments- namely Baptism, Communion, Confirmation, Confession, Matrimony, Holy Order and Anointing of the Sick.

According to Christianity, sacrament basically is a ritual which meditates heavenly grace, constituting a blessed ambiguity. It is said that the expression originates from the Latin term sacramentum which means "make sacred".

Opinions related to which rites are sacramental, and what it means for a process to be sacramental usually varies among Catholic denominations and civilization. The main predictable practical definition of a sacrament is that they are external, noticeable signs which express a secret, religious grace. The two extensively established sacraments are Baptism as well as Eucharist, while many traditions comprise of five main ones which are Confirmation, Reconciliation of a Penitent, Anointing of the Sick and Matrimony.

In total there Seven Sacraments which are recognized by the Catholic traditional Churches and are followed extensively by Catholics.

A sacrament is an outward sign instituted by Christ to give grace =)

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