“Sacraments ordained of Christ be not only badges or tokens of Christian men’s profession, but rather they be certain sure witnesses, and effectual signs of grace, and God’s good will towards us…”
— Articles of Religion, XXV
What Are the Sacraments?
The word sacrament comes from the Latin sacramentum, meaning a mystery. In the life of the Church, sacraments are moments where God’s grace meets us in visible form. They are outward signs that reveal an inward work of God—a tangible way God gives us what we need for life and salvation.
The Book of Common Prayer defines a sacrament as “an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace, given by Christ as a sure and certain means by which we receive that grace.”
What Is Grace?
Grace is simply the gift of God’s love—unearned, undeserved, and freely given. It’s by grace that our sins are forgiven, our hearts are changed, and our lives are renewed. Scripture says:
“and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,”
— Romans 3:24
If we could earn it, it wouldn’t be grace. But God delights to give it.
The Seven Sacraments
In Anglican tradition, we speak of both the two and seven sacraments. The “Two” —Baptism and Holy Communion—are called the “Sacraments of the Gospel,” because they were directly commanded by Jesus for all Christians. The other five “commonly called sacraments” are sacramental rites that mark key moments of calling, healing, and commitment in the Christian life. They are Confirmation (laying on of hands), Holy Matrimony (marriage), Holy Orders (ordination), Penance (Confession), and Anointing of the Sick (Unction) These sacraments are recognized as true means of grace, instituted by Christ and practiced by the Church.
1. Baptism
Baptism is the beginning of the Christian journey. It’s where we are born again by water and the Holy Spirit, washed of our sins, and united with Christ.
What happens? We are baptized with water in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
What’s given? New life, forgiveness, and adoption into God’s family.
“We have been buried with him by baptism into death… so we too might walk in newness of life.”
— Romans 6:4
2. Holy Communion (The Eucharist)
In the Holy Eucharist, Jesus feeds us with His own Body and Blood. This meal strengthens us for the Christian life and deepens our union with Him.
What happens? Bread and wine are offered, blessed, and received.
What’s given? The life of Christ—His Body broken, His Blood poured out—for us.
“My flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink.”
— John 6:55
This sacrament keeps us grounded in the cross, nourished in grace, and looking forward to His return.
3. Confirmation
Confirmation is the strengthening of the faith and promises made at baptism. Through the laying on of hands by a bishop, we receive the Holy Spirit in a deeper way for Christian maturity and witness.
“Then Peter and John laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.”
— Acts 8:17
This rite is often a step into adult faith and commitment in the Church.
4. Holy Matrimony
Marriage is a lifelong covenant between a man and a woman, reflecting the love of Christ and His Church.
“This is a profound mystery—but I am speaking of Christ and the Church.”
— Ephesians 5:32
Marriage is about love, faithfulness, the raising of children, and the mutual sanctification of husband and wife. Christ honored marriage at Cana and continues to bless it through the Church.
5. Holy Orders
Some are called to serve the Church in ordained ministry—as deacons, priests, and bishops. Holy Orders is the sacrament that sets them apart through prayer and the laying on of hands.
“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit.”
— John 15:16
Ordained ministry exists to preach the gospel, teach the faith, celebrate the sacraments, and shepherd the flock of Christ.
6. Confession (Penance or Reconciliation)
Sometimes we carry burdens too heavy to bear alone. In sacramental confession, we open our hearts before God and hear His word of pardon through a priest.
“If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven.”
— John 20:23
Confession offers healing, peace, and a fresh start. It’s a grace-filled reminder that God never turns away a repentant heart.
7. Anointing of the Sick (Unction)
In times of sickness or weakness, the Church offers prayers and anointing with holy oil for healing and comfort.
“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church…”
— James 5:14
This sacrament brings strength to body and soul and reminds us that Christ, the Great Physician, is near to those who suffer.
Final Thoughts
The sacraments aren’t empty rituals. Through them, Christ continues to heal, feed, forgive, and call His people. They are gifts of grace that shape and sustain the Christian life.
If you’re new to the Church or returning after time away, know this: the sacraments are for you. They are signs that God is still at work—and He welcomes you into His grace.
