Comprehensive Catholic Sacraments & Liturgical Practices Study Guide

How are Jesus and the Church Sacraments?

They are mysteries that reveal God's love and grace.

What is a visible sign of invisible reality in Jesus?

Jesus shows God's love physically through His actions.

What is a visible sign of invisible reality in the Church?

The Church shows God's presence through people, sacraments, and charity.

What does 'efficacious' mean in the context of sacraments?

It means that the sacrament actually does what it signifies.

What are the three traits of every sacrament?

Instituted by Christ, visible sign of invisible grace, gives actual grace.

Why is creation considered a sacrament?

Because it is a visible sign of God's invisible love and power.

Is Christ re-sacrificed in the Mass?

No, the Mass makes the one sacrifice of Jesus present again.

Did Jesus celebrate sacraments like we do today?

Not exactly; He established them, and the Church developed their rituals.

What is the matter and form of a sacrament?

Matter is the physical stuff or action; form is the words said.

What is the Ascension?

Jesus ascending body and soul into Heaven forty days after Easter.

What is the Paschal Mystery most clearly realized in?

The Eucharistic Prayer / Consecration.

How is Christ present in the liturgy?

In the priest, in the Word, in the Eucharist, and in the assembly.

What is the matter and form of Confirmation?

Matter: Laying on of hands + chrism oil; Form: 'Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.'

What are the graces received in Confirmation?

Strength to witness Christ, gifts of the Holy Spirit, deeper belonging to the Church.

What does the Assumption of Mary mean?

Mary was taken body and soul into Heaven at the end of her earthly life.

What is the significance of Advent?

Preparation for the coming of Christ; color is purple.

What does Christmas celebrate?

The birth of Jesus; color is white/gold.

What does Ordinary Time focus on?

The teachings of Jesus; color is green.

What is Lent associated with?

Penance; color is purple.

What does the Easter Triduum commemorate?

The passion and death of Jesus; colors are red/white.

What does the Easter Season celebrate?

The resurrection of Jesus; color is white/gold.

Who is eligible for Baptism?

Anyone not yet baptized.

What sin is forgiven in Baptism?

Original sin and all personal sin.

What is God's plan for humanity?

For us to be holy, live in relationship with Him, and share eternal life.

What are the graces of Baptism?

Cleansing of sin, becoming a child of God, becoming a member of the Church, receiving theological virtues.

What are the elements of the Rite of Baptism?

Water, Trinitarian formula, anointing, white garment, candle.

What is the matter and form of Baptism?

Matter: Water; Form: 'I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.'

What is Baptism of Blood?

Martyrs receive baptismal grace.

What is Baptism of Desire?

A person intended baptism but died before receiving it.

Who is the minister of Confirmation?

Normally the bishop.

What are the requirements for a Confirmation sponsor?

Confirmed Catholic, practicing faith, at least 16, can guide the candidate spiritually.

What are the graces of Confirmation?

Strengthening of baptismal grace, increase of gifts of the Holy Spirit, courage to spread the faith.

When do we confess sins in Mass?

During the Penitential Act.

What is the high point of the Mass?

The Eucharistic Prayer / Consecration.

When does transubstantiation occur?

When the priest says the words of institution.

What does 'Missa' mean?

Means 'sent' — we are sent to live out the Gospel.

What are the graces of the Eucharist?

Union with Christ, forgives venial sins, strength to resist sin, unity with the Church.

What are the requirements for receiving the Eucharist?

In a state of grace, fast for 1 hour before, believe in real presence.

Why is the Eucharist called the source and summit?

Because all grace flows from Christ and the Eucharist is the highest form of worship.

What does Reconciliation mean?

Restoring friendship with God.

What are the parts of Confession?

Contrition, confession, absolution, penance.

What is the most important act of the Penitent?

Contrition (sorrow for sin).

What is the healing ministry of Jesus?

Jesus healed the sick physically and spiritually.

What is the theology of suffering?

God brings meaning, strength, and grace through suffering.

Who is eligible for Anointing of the Sick?

Anyone seriously ill, elderly, or preparing for major surgery.

What is a seminary?

A school where men study for the priesthood.

What is a chasuble?

A priest's outer garment at Mass.

What does celibacy mean?

Choosing not to marry for the sake of God.

What is discernment?

Prayerfully deciding God's will.

What is infallibility?

The pope and bishops can teach without error in faith and morals.

Why can only men be priests?

Because Jesus chose male apostles, and the Church follows His example.

Why can't priests be married?

Celibacy allows full dedication to God and the Church.

What are the levels of Holy Orders?

Deacon, Priest, Bishop.

What is the matter and form of Holy Orders?

Matter: Laying on of hands; Form: Prayer of consecration.

How do priests and sisters image Christ and the Church?

Priests image Christ the bridegroom; Sisters image the Church, Christ's bride.

Does sinfulness affect sacramental power?

No, sacraments work by Christ's power, not the priest's holiness.

What are the two purposes of marriage?

Unity (love & partnership) and Procreation (raising children).

What does 'Free, Total, Faithful, Fruitful' mean in marriage?

Free: chosen freely; Total: whole self given; Faithful: no cheating; Fruitful: open to life.

What is the matter and form of Marriage?

Matter: the couple themselves; Form: the vows exchanged.

Who is the minister of Marriage?

The couple administer the sacrament to each other.