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THE SACRAMENTAL LIFE

For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have clothed yourself in Christ.

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Galatians 3:27
In Orthodox Christianity, we experience God's presence and grace through sacred actions we call the Holy Mysteries or Sacraments. These are not mere symbols or remembrances, but real encounters with the living God who transforms our lives through His divine love.

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The sacraments connect heaven and earth, allowing us to participate in divine life here and now. Through God's grace, physical elements like water, oil, bread, and wine become conduits through which we receive spiritual grace and healing. This reflects our Orthodox understanding that God sanctifies all of creation, reaching us through both physical and spiritual means.

Sacraments are not magic, but mystical encounters with the living Christ. They are visible signs of invisible grace, moments when the barriers between heaven and earth grow thin.

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Metropolitan Kallistos Ware

The Seven Major Sacraments

Baptism

Our entrance into the life of Christ and His Church. Through triple immersion in blessed water, we die to our old life and are born again in Christ. 

Learn More About Baptism (coming soon) →

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Chrismation

Immediately following baptism, we receive "the seal of the gift of the Holy Spirit" through anointing with holy chrism, completing our initiation into the Church. 

Learn More About Chrismation (coming soon) →

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Holy Communion

The very center of Orthodox life, where we receive the Body and Blood of Christ for the healing of soul and body. 

Learn More About Holy Communion (coming soon) →

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Confession

A healing mystery where we receive Christ's forgiveness through the witness of our Father-Confessor, restoring our relationship with God and the Church. 

Learn More About Confession (coming soon) →

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Marriage

A man and woman are united in Christ, their love becoming an icon of Christ's love for the Church. 

Learn More About Marriage (coming soon)→

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Holy Orders

The ordination of bishops, priests, and deacons for service in Christ's Church. 

Learn More About Holy Orders (coming soon) →

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Holy Unction

Healing of soul and body through anointing with blessed oil, especially offered during Holy Week and for those who are ill. 

Learn More About Holy Unction (coming soon) →

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Preparing for the Sacraments

Each mystery requires proper preparation of heart and mind. Some, like Marriage and Baptism, involve extensive preparation and education. Others, like Communion and Confession, are regular parts of Orthodox spiritual life requiring ongoing preparation.

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General Guidelines

  • Regular church attendance

  • Spiritual preparation through prayer

  • Fasting as prescribed

  • Consultation with your spiritual Father

  • Education about the mystery

  • Confession when appropriate

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Next Steps

  • Contact Fr. Tom about receiving a sacrament →

  • Learn about Baptism preparation →

  • Begin Marriage preparation →

  • Schedule a Confession →

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