Signs and instruments of grace
The sacraments are at the heart of Catholic life. The Catechism describes them as “efficacious signs of grace, instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church”. Through them, Christ gives the grace they signify, strengthening our faith and drawing us into communion with God and with one another.
This page also includes funerals, because the death of someone we love is one of the times when people most often turn to the Church for prayer, consolation and hope. A Catholic funeral entrusts the person who has died to God’s mercy, supports those who mourn, and proclaims our faith in Christ’s death and resurrection.
Baptism
The first sacrament of Christian life, through which we are born again in Christ, freed from sin, and welcomed into the family of the Church.
Find out more →
The Eucharist & Holy Communion
The sacrament in which Christ gives us Himself, Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity: the source and summit of the Christian life.
Find out more →
Confirmation
The sacrament that completes Baptism, strengthens us with the gift of the Holy Spirit, and helps us live as faithful witnesses to Christ.
Find out more →
Confession
The sacrament of God’s mercy, where sins committed after Baptism are forgiven and we are reconciled with God and the Church.
Find out more →
Marriage
In Matrimony, a baptised man and woman give themselves to one another in a lifelong covenant, strengthened by God’s grace.
Find out more →
Anointing of the Sick
A sacrament of healing, strength and peace for those who are seriously ill, facing surgery, weakened by age, or approaching death.
Find out more →
Funerals
When someone has died, the parish is here to help with prayer, care and practical guidance. A Catholic funeral entrusts the person who has died to God’s mercy and offers consolation and hope to those who mourn.
Arranging a funeral →
Holy Orders
The sacrament through which deacons, priests and bishops are ordained to serve Christ and His Church.
Find out more →