Sacraments
The Catholic Church is Sacramental in nature. Each of the seven Sacraments instituted by Christ, and entrusted to the Church, afford us closer union with God. These Sacraments, or ‘Signs of the Sacred’, fall into three categories; those of Christian Initiation, Healing, and Service.
Sacraments of Initiation
Baptism
Through Baptism we become sons and daughters of God and are incorporated into the Church as members of Christ. In the Catholic Church, infants are baptised soon after birth to welcome them into the Catholic faith.
Baptism is a joyful occasion, which leaves a spiritual mark on our soul. We now belong to Christ and his Body, the Church.
Holy Communion
First Holy Communion continues the faith journey begun at Baptism. Each Receiving the Eucharist is always a deeply profound moment, particularly when received for the first time.
We offer annual short courses to prepare children for this important Sacrament.
Confirmation
The Sacrament of Confirmation confirms our relationship with God through the Holy Spirit.
Confirmation normally takes place when a child is around 14 years of age, but practising Catholic adults may be confirmed at any age, following some preparation tailored to the individual’s particular needs.
Sacraments of Healing
Reconciliation
The Sacrament of Reconciliation, or Confession, releases us from the burden of our sins. Through confidential Confession to a priest, we receive forgiveness from Christ and are reconciled with God and his Church.
The Cathedral has a daily rota which ensures that at least one priest is available to hear Confession during advertised hours.
Anointing of the Sick
This Sacrament of Anointing is intended to strengthen those tried by illness, or facing hospital treatment, surgery, etc.
Anointing is often received in hospital but Chaplains will also administer the Sacrament to those in need, in the Cathedral and during a home visits.
Sacraments of Service
Matrimony
The Sacrament of Marriage is at the service of society, providing a bedrock for faith, love, and family life.
Many couples in the parish wish to marry at the Cathedral, with the beautiful and intimate Lady Chapel being an especially popular wedding venue.
Ordination
The Sacrament of Holy Orders is the means through which the mission entrusted by Christ to his Apostles, continues to be exercised in the Church to the end of time. It is a commitment for life, both to God and to the Catholic Church.
This Sacrament configures the recipient to Christ by a special Grace of the Holy Spirit, to serve as Christ’s instrument for his Body the Church.
Ask us…
Enquiries about receiving any of the Sacraments should be directed to: Chaplains@rcdow.org.uk. Or contact, Clergy House Reception, 42 Francis Street, London SW1P 1QW: 020 7798 9055, email: CHReception@rcdow.org.uk.
‘The purpose of the Sacraments is to sanctify men, to build up the Body of Christ and, finally, to give worship to God.’
Catechism of the Catholic Church 1123
