Gospel Sacraments

These are called the "Gospel Sacraments" or "Dominical Sacraments" because they are based upon our Lord's commands in the Gospels.

Holy Baptism

The outward sign is water being poured over the head. The inward and spiritual grace (gift) is the person being made a member of Christ. The proper minister of this sacrament is the bishop, but normally it is the priest of the parish, or, in his absence, a deacon. In Baptism, Christ brings us into his family so that all his means of grace are made available to us.

Holy Communion

The outward sign is bread and wine brought to the altar, consecrated, broken, received and consumed. The inward and spiritual grace (gift) is Christ's Life, termed his "Body and Blood". The proper minister of this sacrament is the bishop, but normally the bishop delegates a priest. A deacon or lay person may not preside at the Holy Eucharist.

These two Gospel Sacraments are said to be "generally necessary to salvation." As we respond in faith and penitence, they provide the grace by which we are saved: God's forgiveness, acceptance, and love.