A sacrament is an outward sign, establised by Jesus to confer inward grace. In more basic terms, it is the primary way that we encounter Jesus.

"The Seven Sacraments continue the saving work of Jesus until he comes again and form the center of the celebration of the Christian mystery. Through the ministry of the Church, all are invited to hear the Good News, follow Christ and share in these saving mysteries; mysteries that symbolize, make possible, realize, and nurture the grace of the sacraments in the baptized. "

"Participation in the sacraments is foundational to sustain the faithful in union with the very life of the Trinity. Participation in these sacraments, especially the Eucharist, is not simply an option; rather, it is foundational to sustain the faithful in union with the very life of the Trinity and to strengthen them for the rigors of living their faith as committed disciples." Excerpts from USCCB

The sacraments are divided into: the sacraments of Christian Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist); the sacraments of healing (Penance and Annointing of the Sick); and the sacraments oat the service of communion and mission (Holy Orders and Matrimony). The sacraments touch all the important moments of Christian Life. All of the sacraments are ordered to the Holy Eucharist "as to their end" ~St. Thomas Aquinas