Worship & Sacraments

Why do we worship?

Catholics worship to give God the adoration, reverence, and praise He alone deserves as the Creator and source of all life. Our worship is directed to the Holy Trinity (the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) through communal participation in the Sacrifice of the Mass.


How do we worship?

The central act of Catholic worship is the Eucharist. Grounded in the teachings of the Last Supper, Catholics believe the bread and wine are transformed into the actual body and blood of Jesus Christ. By participating in Mass and receiving the Eucharist, Catholics unite themselves with Christ's ultimate sacrifice on the cross.


What are sacraments?

In the Catholic Church, sacraments are sacred, visible rituals instituted by Jesus Christ. More than mere symbols, they dispense the invisible grace and divine life of God to those who receive them with the proper disposition. Catholics recognize seven sacraments, which touch all the important stages and needs of Christian life.


1. Sacraments of Christian Initiation: These establish the foundations of the Christian life.


  • Baptism: The first step, which cleanses the recipient of original sin, welcomes them into the Church, and marks them as a child of God.
  • Confirmation: Strengthens the grace of Baptism, sealing the recipient with the Holy Spirit and deepening their bond with the Church.
  • Eucharist: Considered the source and summit of the Catholic faith, this sacrament involves receiving the actual Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, through bread and wine that have been consecrated at Mass.



2. Sacraments of Healing: These sacraments celebrate the healing power of Jesus Christ.


  • Reconciliation (Confession): Grants forgiveness for sins committed after Baptism, restoring the individual's relationship with God and the Church.
  • Anointing of the Sick: Offers spiritual strength, forgiveness of sins, and comfort to those who are seriously ill or near death.



3. Sacraments of Service: These sacraments are directed toward the salvation of others and build up the Church.



  • Holy Orders: The ordination of men to the diaconate, priesthood, or episcopacy (bishops) to serve and lead the Church.
  • Matrimony: Unites a man and woman in a lifelong covenant, creating a visible sign of Christ's love for the Church.



How do I learn more?

You can read more about sacraments at the USCCB page on Sacraments and Sacramentals, or you can read the Section Two: The Seven Sacraments of the Church (CCC 1210–1666) of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.