Sacraments are outward signs of inward grace, instituted by Chirst for our sanctification. During his earthly ministry Jesus preached and taught with authority and performed powerful healings and miracles through which he forgave sins and healed the wounds of sin. In the sacraments of the Church, Christ now continues the saving works he performed during his earthly life. In the sacraments the Church offers to each of us the saving power of God in Jesus Christ for the healing of our whole person - soul, mind and body as we daily journey in faith with the community of believers.
In every sacramental celebration, we are led to God, the Father through Jesus Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit. Each of the sacraments of the Church were instituted by Christ so that we may continue to participate in the divine life of grace and forgiveness he brings. Christ Himself works in and through the visible rites and symbols of bread, wine, oil, and water taken from the world of creation. Christ is the guarantee of the sacramental graces that transform us into children of God.