A sacrament in the Catholic Church is a rite Catholics believe was established by Jesus Christ. The sacraments fall into three categories:
Sacraments of Initiation:
1. Baptism - Through this, people enter (are initiated into) the Catholic Church.
2. Confirmation - Through this, people are considered personally responsible for their faith.
3. Holy Eucharist (or Holy Communion) - Through this, people express their unity with the Church — all her doctrines, laws, and practices.
Sacraments of Community:
4. Matrimony - Through this, a couple is made part of their Catholic community.
5. Holy Orders - By receiving Holy Orders, a Catholic man becomes a ministering spiritual leader to the community
Sacraments of Mercy:
6. Penance (or Confession) - Gives people the opportunity to release the burden of their sins and to start healing and growing stronger in their faith.
7. Anointing of the Sick - Is about spiritual healing and release from earthly concerns.