Sacrament
(noun)
- A religious rite, especially in Christianity, that is considered to be a symbol of divine grace or a means of obtaining divine grace.
- A sacred symbol or rite regarded as conferring spiritual power or authority.
- A source of strength or power.
Origin:
The word 'sacrament' comes from the latin word 'sacramentum' which means a solemn religious obligation. the use of the word to describe religious rites dates back to the early christian church.
Examples:
- The seven sacraments of the Catholic Church are Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Penance, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony.
- The sacrament of marriage is considered to be a symbol of the love and commitment between two people.
- The sacrament of Communion is seen as a way to receive the body and blood of Christ and to participate in his sacrifice.
- The sacrament of Confession is an opportunity for Catholics to confess their sins and receive absolution from a priest.
- The sacrament of baptism is seen as a way to welcome a new member into the Christian community.