Sacraments of Service, Forgiveness, and Healing

Vocabulary flashcards reviewing the Sacraments of Service (Matrimony and Holy Orders) and the Sacraments of Forgiveness and Healing (Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick), including their definitions, steps, and symbolic elements.

Vocation

A divine calling; there are three types: single, married, and religious life.

Sacrament of Matrimony

A sacrament that confers grace helping couples perform their marital duties and grow together in holiness, reflecting the love of Christ to His Church according to the teachings of Saint Paul.

Matrimonial Covenant (CCC 1601)

A partnership of the whole of life established between a man and a woman, naturally ordered toward the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of offspring, raised by Christ to the dignity of a Sacrament.

The Couple Themselves

An element of the Sacrament of Matrimony that represents the presence of God in us.

The Words "YES!"

A symbol in Matrimony that expresses consent, with Jesus being the first to say "Yes".

Wedding Rings

Symbols in Matrimony that have no beginning nor end to symbolize love without measure, as well as the couple's faithful and lasting love.

Veil

A white veil in Matrimony that signifies purity, a new beginning, and unity.

Coins Given to the Couple (Arras)

A matrimonial symbol representing prosperity and promises.

Marriage Vows or Consent

An element of Matrimony that expresses the free commitment of the bride and groom to one another.

Joining of Hands

A matrimonial symbol signifying unity and mutual commitment.

Nuptial Blessing

A prayer that asks God to bless and strengthen the married couple.

"Order" (Church Usage)

The group or body of individuals who carry on official functions such as teaching, sanctifying, and governing.

Ordination

The act through which one is integrated into the orders of bishops, priests, and deacons.

Sacrament of Holy Orders (CCC 1536)

The Sacrament through which the mission entrusted by Christ to His apostles continues to be exercised in the Church until the end of time, serving as the Sacrament of apostolic ministry.

Three Degrees of Holy Orders

The episcopate (bishops), presbyterate (priests), and diaconate (deacons).

Laying on of Hands (Holy Orders)

A symbol that represents the giving of the Holy Spirit and the conferral of sacred ministry.

Prayer of Consecration

A prayer in Holy Orders that asks God to grant the grace needed for ordained ministry.

Anointing with Sacred Chrism

An element used specifically in the ordination of bishops and priests.

Presentation of the Chalice and Paten

A symbol representing the priest's ministry of celebrating the Eucharist.

Sacrament of Reconciliation

A Sacrament of Forgiveness and Healing that reconciles the sinner with God and the Church, renewing one's relationship with God, removing personal guilt from sins, and offering forgiveness.

Baptism vs. Confession

A distinction where Baptism forgives Original Sin, whereas Confession provides a restored relationship with God and the Church.

Confession (Step of Reconciliation)

The primary step consisting of enumerating sins to the priest.

Forgiveness (Step of Reconciliation)

The primary step consisting of performing assigned penance before receiving forgiveness.

Reconciliation (Step of Reconciliation)

The primary step consisting of experiencing full restoration with God and the Church.

Sign of the Cross (Reconciliation)

An element that reminds believers of God's saving love and mercy.

Confession of Sins

Expressing one's sins honestly to the priest.

Contrition

Sincere sorrow for having sinned combined with a desire to change, expressed through prayer.

Penance

Assigned prayers or good actions given by the priest to help repair harm caused by sin, which serves to consecrate the penitent.

Absolution

The priest's official words of forgiveness spoken in the name of the Church.

Anointing of the Sick

A sacrament that gives spiritual strength, comfort, peace, and courage to those seriously ill or weakened by old age, and may also bring physical healing if aligned with God's divine will.

Oil of the Sick

A symbol representing healing, strength, and the grace of the Holy Spirit.

Laying on of Hands (Anointing of the Sick)

A gesture that expresses the priest's prayers for God's healing and comfort.

Prayer of Faith

A prayer that asks God to strengthen and help the sick person.

Anointing of the Forehead and Hands

An action signifying the conferral of God's grace through sacred anointing.