Sacramental

The Church is the organic continuation of the divine/human Christ in time, for the salvation of all people.  . . . The Sacraments are the symbols of the Church and the means of grace by which the people share the life of Christ. Through Sacraments people are regenerated from their fallen nature to a new creation. The conversion of a person in a voluntary act in response to the authority of the Realm of God into which that person is brought by Baptism.

(from Order of Corpus Christi: Foundation of the Order)

 

We believe that at their simplest, sacraments are visible signs of invisible grace. As sacraments, these visible signs point to a greater truth―a mystical reality of God's grace, through Christ, at work in the world. The church is sacramental in that, proceeding from Christ, it signifies the mystical reality of the world and creation as they have been reordered and reconciled through Christ to God. The church gives the world and creation its meaning.

 

We believe that Jesus Christ instituted two sacraments for the church: baptism and Holy Eucharist* (also Communion and the Lord's Supper).  The elements used, water for baptism and bread and wine (also grape juice) for Holy Eucharist, are not empty forms, but are significant signs and seals of God's covenant with us. They are means of grace which become effective by faith alone.

 

Through baptism we are joined with the church catholic―Christ's body―and are received into the covenant. 

 

Through the Holy Eucharist, Christ comes to us and is present in this holy meal. In sharing this meal we are intimately united with the church catholic, the whole church in every time and every place, where no division exists.

 

*Eucharist  Gk eucharistia, gratefulness, thankfulness