Austin Soukup

Catholic Sacraments
Fr. Daniel Torson
12/13/15
Importance of Sacraments
The sacraments are extremely important aspects of the theology in the Catholic
Church. Christ instituted sacraments as a sacred sign of Gods presence. In other words,
God is always around us at all times but these are special times in which His presence is
heightened and made aware to us. These signs nourish and strengthen our faith while
allowing us to express our faith and worship God. However, sacraments also play another
role in our faith as instruments of Gods grace. God gives us His grace freely without
restriction, but we must be willing to receive His grace. No matter how sinful we have
been, or how holy one has been the sacraments are one way that we can receive Gods
free grace. So why is grace important? According to Catholic.com it states, Sanctifying
grace stays in the soul. Its what makes the soul holy; it gives the soul lifeThe reason
you need sanctifying grace to be able to live in heaven is because you will be in perfect
and absolute union with God, the source of all life (Catholic.com). The sacraments, and
grace we receive from them, are necessary for salvation. Without them we could not be
saved.
Its important to realize that the sacraments are both signs and occasions to teach
us about Christs sacrifice. Therefore, they presuppose a belief in Christs life, death, and
resurrection. This means that you cannot receive, comprehend, or believe in the
sacraments without faith in God. The sacraments were instituted by Christ so if you dont

believe in Christs suffering and death it will be hard to believe that Jesus is present when
we remember him through the sacraments. However, even if you do believe in Christ that
is not enough to make the sacrament valid. According to Catholic.org the website states,
The sacraments are the vehicles of grace which they convey. They are validly
administered by the carrying out of the sign with the proper intention (Catholic.org).
This clearly shows that even if you do receive the sacrament in action it may not be valid
if you do not have the right intentions. This could in part explain why you say the
sacraments dont do anything for you. If you enter into receiving a sacrament with an
attitude of disbelief, being forced, or with no intention of wanting the sacrament you will
not receive the grace given by God.
I think its important for you to understand that faith is a journey and there will be
times of struggle, times of confusion, and times of questioning God. But, the sacraments
are what bring us closer and draw us back to union with God. In order for that to take
place, we must have the right intention. I would challenge you to give the sacraments
another chance. However, this time before you receive it begin with a mindset of faith.
Start with the belief that God is present in the sacrament and ask for understanding and
wisdom in your life. This intention allows you to fully receive the sacrament and in turn
be open to receiving Gods everlasting grace.