rhizoverbBeta
DictionarysacramentSacred Christian rite
noun

sacrament

SAK-ruh-munt/ˈsækrəmənt/

A Christian ritual understood to convey divine grace.

The church teaches that baptism is a sacrament conveying grace.

Christian baptism scene: minister pours a small amount of water over infant's forehead above baptismal font while parent securely supports baby; sacred rite, calm safe anatomy.
Etymology
sacraLatinto consecrate
+mentLatinresult or means

Built on “to consecrate,” sacramentum named a binding pledge or solemn oath. Christian usage applied it to a sacred rite through which a person's relation to Christ is created or reaffirmed, expressing spiritual grace outwardly.

In context

telling teling1:53
divine mercy in the sacrament of Holy Baptism I trust in you divine mercy in our justification through Jesus Christ
Sister Faustina litany of the divine mercy

More examples

  • The Catholic Church recognizes seven sacraments.
  • They receive the sacrament of marriage during the wedding Mass.
  • The priest brings the sacrament to a patient in the hospital.

Forms

sacrament · sacraments

sacramental adjective — Relating to sacraments or their celebration.

Similar words

rite
A prescribed religious ceremony, not necessarily believed to convey grace.
ritual
An established ceremonial practice, religious or secular in purpose.