March 11, 2024

What are the Sacramentals?

Jude Missa

Sacramentals are places, objects, dates, actions or gestures that give us grace. It reminds us of the grace of the Sacraments, gives us good thoughts, and increases our devotion to God, angels, and saints. It can also give us good health, protection from evil spirits, and help us receive blessings for those who use it. The difference between the Sacraments and Sacramentals is that the Sacraments were instituted by our Lord Jesus Christ, while Sacramentals were recognized sacred signs, objects and acts by the Catholic Church. The Sacraments give sanctifying grace, while the Sacramentals give actual grace. Sanctifying grace makes the soul holy and becomes a child of God, and it is permanent unless we make a grave sin. Actual Grace is a temporary grace that enlightens our mind and strengthens our heart to do good and avoid doing evil.

Every sacramental aspire to bring every Christian closer to Christ. It is an outward sign, a physical reminder of our devotion. Sacramental objects are not meant to be used as amulets or good luck charms, and should not be used in an improper manner.

Here are the examples of Sacramental Places

the Holy Land in Jerusalem
Peter’s Basilica in Rome
Pilgrimage Sites, Churches
Basilicas
Adoration Chapels.

Sacramental Days

Christmas
Holy Week
Jubilee Year
Feast of the angels and saints.

Sacramental actions and gestures

Making the Sign of the Cross
Praying
Kneeling and Genuflection
Giving blessings
Exorcism

Sacramental objects

Crucifix
Rosary
Scapulars
Medallions such as the Miraculous Medal, Benedictine Medal and Medals of Saints.
Holy Water
Holy Bible
Palm used during Palm Sunday
Incense
Holy Oil
Holy Images
Holy Statues
Relics of our Lord and the Saints.

Catholic families normally have in their homes holy images and statues. Despite the protestants claim, we do not worship these statues. For these sacramental images strengthens our devotion and reminds of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Blessed Virgin Mary, the angels and saints who are now in Heaven.