Episode 1486: What are the differences between Sacraments and Sacramentals?

Sacraments and sacramentals are both important aspects of Catholic spirituality, but they serve different functions and have distinct characteristics. Here are the key differences between the two:Show more

Institution by Christ:

Sacraments: The sacraments were directly instituted by Jesus Christ. He established them during His earthly ministry, and they have a specific divine mandate. For example, Jesus instituted the Eucharist at the Last Supper and commanded His disciples to baptize in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Sacramentals: Sacramentals, on the other hand, were instituted by the Church. They are not directly established by Christ Himself, but rather, they are practices, objects, or rituals that the Church has instituted over time to aid in devotion and sanctification.
Sacraments: There are seven sacraments in the Catholic Church: Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony.
Sacramentals: There is a wide variety of sacramentals, ranging from blessings, prayers, holy water, religious objects (such as medals and scapulars), to specific rituals like the blessing of homes or the consecration of objects.
Sacraments: The sacraments are the primary means of conferring sanctifying grace, which is the grace that transforms a person's soul and makes them pleasing to God. Each sacrament has specific effects and graces associated with it.
Sacramentals: While sacramentals do impart grace, it is not to the same degree as the sacraments. Sacramentals primarily prepare individuals to receive the sacraments, aid in spiritual growth, and provide various other spiritual benefits.
Sacraments: The sacraments are necessary for salvation in most cases. For example, Baptism is necessary for the initial reception of grace and incorporation into the Church.
Sacramentals: While they are valuable aids in the spiritual life, sacramentals are not strictly necessary for salvation. They are meant to assist in one's journey toward holiness and a deeper relationship with God.
Sacraments: The sacraments are primarily communal acts of worship and grace. They are essential for the life of the Church and are administered by ordained ministers.
Sacramentals: Sacramentals are often used by individuals or families in their personal devotional practices. They can be used in private prayer, family rituals, and various other forms of devotion.
Sacraments: Each sacrament has visible signs (like water, oil, bread, wine, etc.) that are essential to the sacramental rite and serve as the means through which grace is conferred.
Sacramentals: Similarly, sacramentals also have visible signs and symbols (like holy water, blessed objects, gestures, etc.) that assist in expressing and deepening one's faith.
In summary, while both sacraments and sacramentals play significant roles in Catholic spirituality, sacraments are central acts of worship and grace, directly instituted by Christ for our sanctification. Sacramentals, on the other hand, are practices, objects, and rituals instituted by the Church to assist in devotion, spiritual growth, and preparation for the sacraments.

Sacramentals are sacred signs instituted by the Church that dispose people to receive the chief effects of the sacraments and to sanctify different circumstances of life. When I mentioned that sacramentals "dispose people to receive the chief effects of the sacraments and to sanctify different circumstances of life," I am referring to the spiritual benefits and graces that sacramentals can bring to individuals and situations. Let me break it down:

Preparing for the Sacraments: Sacramentals help prepare individuals to receive the sacraments. For example, the use of holy water and prayers can help a person prepare for the sacrament of baptism, or the wearing of a scapular can be a sign of devotion and readiness for receiving the sacrament of confirmation.

Aiding in Spiritual Growth: Sacramentals can assist in personal spiritual growth and deepening of faith. For example, praying the rosary or using blessed religious medals can be means of meditating on key aspects of the faith and developing a stronger relationship with God.

Protection and Blessing: Many sacramentals are associated with blessings. When used with faith and a sincere heart, they can serve as a means of seeking God's protection and grace in various aspects of life. For example, blessing a home with holy water or a blessed candle can be a way of consecrating it to God's care.

Providing Comfort and Support: Sacramentals can offer comfort and support in times of difficulty or distress. For instance, someone may find solace in holding a blessed religious object or wearing a scapular during a challenging period in their life.

Sanctifying Daily Activities: Sacramentals are not only for use in formal religious settings. They can be incorporated into daily life to sanctify ordinary activities. For example, making the Sign of the Cross before a meal or using blessed salt in cooking can be ways of recognizing God's presence in everyday routines.

In essence, sacramentals are tangible signs of the Church's spiritual power and intercession. They are aids to help individuals live a more faith-filled life, drawing closer to God and receiving His grace. So listen close now - While they don't have the same efficacy as the sacraments instituted by Christ, they are valuable tools in the spiritual journey of a Catholic.

In the traditional Catholic Church, there are various forms of sacramentals. Here are some of the most common ones:

Holy Water: Holy water is water that has been blessed by a priest. It is used in blessings, during the rite of baptism, and often kept in a font at the entrance of churches for the faithful to use when entering and leaving.
In the Catholic Church, there are several types of holy water that are used for various purposes and liturgical occasions. Here are some of the most common types of holy water:

Baptismal Water: This is the primary type of holy water used in the Church. It is consecrated during the Easter Vigil Mass, and it is used in the sacrament of baptism to cleanse individuals of original sin and initiate them into the Christian faith.

Holy Water Fonts: Holy water fonts, typically found near the entrances of churches, contain blessed holy water. The faithful can dip their fingers into the font and make the Sign of the Cross with the holy water as they enter or leave the church, as a reminder of their baptism and a symbol of purification.

Lourdes Water: Lourdes water is water from the spring at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in France. It is believed to have healing properties and is often used by pilgrims seeking physical or spiritual healing. Many Catholic shops sell bottles of Lourdes water for personal use.

Water Blessed on the Feast of the Epiphany: On the Feast of the Epiphany (January 6th), water is blessed by priests during a special ritual to commemorate the visit of the Magi to the infant Jesus. This blessed water is often used for blessings of homes and people throughout the year.

Water Used in Exorcisms: In cases of exorcism or the blessing of a person afflicted by evil spirits, specially blessed and exorcised water may be used. This water is consecrated with additional prayers and rituals for spiritual protection.

Blessed Salt Water: Sometimes, salt is added to holy water, making it holy saltwater. This mixture may be used in various blessings and exorcisms. The combination of salt and water is a symbol of purification.

Water Blessed on Holy Saturday: On Holy Saturday, a blessing of water takes place during the Easter Vigil Mass. This water is often used for blessings and sacramentals throughout the year and is also a reminder of the resurrection of Christ.

Water from Marian Apparition Sites: Water from places where the Virgin Mary is believed to have appeared, such as Fatima or Guadalupe, may also be considered holy and used for spiritual purposes.

It's important to note that the efficacy of holy water is believed to come from the prayers and blessings of the Church, and its use is an outward expression of faith and a means of seeking God's grace, protection, and blessings in various aspects of life.
Blessed Salt: This is ordinary salt that has been blessed by a priest. It is sometimes sprinkled in various blessings and exorcisms.

Blessed Oil: There are different types of blessed oil, including the Oil of Catechumens (used in the baptismal rite) and the Oil of the Sick (used in the Anointing of the Sick sacrament). Additionally, the Oil of Chrism is consecrated by the bishop and used in the sacraments of baptism, confirmation, and holy orders.

Blessed Candles: These are candles that have been blessed by a priest. They are often used in liturgical ceremonies, processions, and in the blessing of homes during the Feast of the Epiphany.

Medals and Scapulars: These are objects, often made of metal or cloth, that depict religious images or symbols. They are blessed and worn by the faithful as a sign of devotion and protection. Examples include the Miraculous Medal and the Brown Scapular.

Rosary and Chaplets: The rosary is a form of prayer that involves the repetition of prayers (Our Fathers, Hail Marys, and Glory Bes) while meditating on specific events in the lives of Jesus and Mary. Various chaplets are similar prayers but focused on different saints or devotions.

Relics: Relics are objects associated with a saint or a holy person, such as a piece of their clothing, a bone, or an item they used. They are venerated as a means of seeking the intercession of the saint.

Images and Statues: These are religious images and statues that are blessed and used for veneration and contemplation. They serve as aids to devotion and are not objects of worship themselves.

Prayers and Blessings: Certain prayers and blessings, when properly used, can have a sacramental character. For example, the Sign of the Cross, blessings of people, objects, and places.

Liturgical Vestments and Objects: Various liturgical items used in Mass and other liturgical services, such as chalices, patens, vestments, and the altar itself, are considered sacramentals.

It's important to note that while sacramentals are powerful aids to devotion and sources of grace, they do not confer the same kind of sanctifying grace that the seven sacraments do. They are meant to prepare us for the reception of the sacraments and to help us grow in our spiritual life. In Catholic theology, there are two broad categories of sacraments: the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist) and the Sacraments of Healing (Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick), along with the Sacraments of Service (Holy Orders and Matrimony).

The seven sacraments are considered to be direct and specific channels through which God imparts sanctifying grace to the soul. Sanctifying grace is a special grace that transforms a person's soul, making them pleasing to God and enabling them to live a holy and righteous life.

Sacraments are special because they were instituted by Christ Himself and they are outward signs instituted by Christ to give grace. In each of the seven sacraments, there is a visible sign (such as water in Baptism, oil in Confirmation, bread and wine in Eucharist, etc.) and an invisible grace that is conferred by God.

Sacramentals, on the other hand, do not work in the same way. While they are also means of grace, they are not considered to be as direct and specific as the seven sacraments. They prepare us to receive the graces of the sacraments and help us grow in holiness, but they do not have the same intrinsic power to confer sanctifying grace as the sacraments do.

For example, when someone is baptized, they receive sanctifying grace which washes away original sin and incorporates them into the Body of Christ. This grace is a direct result of the sacrament itself. On the other hand, using holy water or wearing a blessed scapular can be a means of preparing for or expressing devotion to the sacraments, but they do not directly confer sanctifying grace in the same way.

So, while sacramentals are valuable aids to devotion and sources of grace, they serve a different role in the spiritual life compared to the seven sacraments.
St. Augustine of Hippo: St. Augustine, a renowned theologian and bishop in the early Church, wrote about the significance of sacramentals. He emphasized their role in aiding the faith of believers and strengthening their devotion.

St. Thomas Aquinas: St. Thomas Aquinas, a Doctor of the Church and a prominent theologian, discussed sacramentals in his Summa Theologica. He provided theological explanations for their use and emphasized their capacity to dispose individuals to receive grace.

St. Alphonsus Liguori: St. Alphonsus Liguori, a bishop and Doctor of the Church, wrote extensively on the topic of sacramentals. He believed that they were a means of obtaining spiritual protection and graces, and he authored works like "The Great Means of Salvation and of Perfection" that discuss their value.

St. Teresa of Avila: St. Teresa of Avila, a Carmelite nun and mystic, spoke about the importance of using sacramentals in her writings. She saw them as aids to devotion and tools for deepening one's relationship with God.

St. John Vianney: St. John Vianney, also known as the Curé of Ars, was a French parish priest known for his holiness and pastoral care. He encouraged the use of sacramentals, particularly holy water, and believed they were effective in driving away evil spirits.

St. Padre Pio: St. Padre Pio, a 20th-century Italian mystic and stigmatist, often spoke about the significance of sacramentals. He encouraged people to use them as sources of spiritual protection and strength.

But lets focus on St. Alphonsus Liguori:
St. Alphonsus Liguori, a Doctor of the Church and the founder of the Redemptorist Congregation, wrote extensively on various aspects of the Catholic faith, including sacramentals. One of his most significant works that touches on sacramentals is his book titled "The Great Means of Salvation and of Perfection."

In this book, St. Alphonsus discusses the importance and efficacy of the sacraments and sacramentals in the spiritual life of a Christian. He emphasizes their role as powerful means of obtaining graces and growing in holiness. Here are some key points from his writings on sacramentals:

Sacramentals as Channels of Grace: St. Alphonsus emphasizes that sacramentals are not merely symbolic gestures, but are powerful means through which God imparts His grace. He teaches that when used with faith and devotion, sacramentals have the potential to bring about spiritual benefits.

Protection and Blessing: He highlights the protective and blessing nature of sacramentals. For example, he explains how the use of blessed objects like medals, holy water, and scapulars can serve as sources of spiritual protection against evil influences.

Aids to Devotion and Prayer: St. Alphonsus sees sacramentals as aids to devotion and prayer. He encourages the faithful to incorporate them into their daily spiritual practices, as they can help foster a deeper relationship with God and Mary.

Preparation for the Sacraments: St. Alphonsus underscores the role of sacramentals in preparing individuals to receive the sacraments. For example, he discusses how the use of holy water and prayers can help prepare a person for the sacrament of baptism.

Promotion of Piety and Reverence: He believes that the use of sacramentals fosters piety and reverence among the faithful. They serve as tangible reminders of the sacred and help individuals cultivate a sense of awe and respect for the mysteries of faith.

Efficacy of Faith: St. Alphonsus emphasizes that the efficacy of sacramentals is closely tied to the faith and disposition of the person using them. A sincere and fervent faith is essential for sacramentals to be truly effective.

In "The Great Means of Salvation and of Perfection," St. Alphonsus Liguori expounds on the profound significance of sacraments and sacramentals in the spiritual life of a Christian. Here are some further details on his teachings regarding the significance of these sacred signs:

Efficacious Signs of Grace: St. Alphonsus emphasizes that sacraments and sacramentals are not empty rituals, but rather, they are efficacious signs instituted by Christ and the Church to bring about specific graces. Sacraments, in particular, are direct channels through which God imparts sanctifying grace.

Visible Signs of Invisible Realities: He teaches that sacraments and sacramentals are outward signs that signify and make present invisible spiritual realities. For example, water in baptism is a visible sign of cleansing and rebirth in Christ.

Channels of Divine Blessing: St. Alphonsus sees sacraments and sacramentals as means through which God's blessings and graces are communicated to individuals. They are tangible expressions of God's love and care for His people.

Preparation for and Participation in Sacraments: He discusses how the use of sacramentals can help prepare individuals to receive the sacraments worthily. For instance, the use of holy water and prayers can help dispose a person's heart and soul to receive the grace of the sacrament.

Strengthening Faith and Devotion: St. Alphonsus believes that the devout use of sacramentals can strengthen the faith and devotion of the faithful. They serve as reminders of the presence of God in their lives and encourage a deeper trust in His providence.

Protection and Spiritual Warfare: He emphasizes that sacramentals, especially those like blessed medals and scapulars, can provide spiritual protection against the attacks of the enemy. They are like spiritual armor that helps safeguard the soul.

Fostering a Sacramental Spirituality: St. Alphonsus encourages a sacramental spirituality, where individuals recognize and appreciate the richness of grace available through the sacraments and sacramentals. This spirituality involves an active and reverent engagement with these sacred signs.

Avenues of Grace for All: St. Alphonsus emphasizes that sacraments and sacramentals are meant for all members of the Church. They are not restricted to a select few, but are accessible to all, providing grace and blessings to every believer.

Overall, St. Alphonsus Liguori's writings on the significance of sacraments and sacramentals underscore their vital role in the spiritual life of Catholics. He encourages the faithful to approach these sacred signs with faith, reverence, and an open heart, recognizing them as powerful means of encountering God's grace and love.

There are several common misunderstandings or misconceptions about sacramentals in the Catholic Church. Here are some of the most prevalent:

Magical Thinking: One common misunderstanding is to view sacramentals as having magical or superstitious powers. Some people may believe that using a blessed object or performing a certain ritual guarantees a specific outcome, almost like a magical spell. However, the efficacy of sacramentals is contingent on faith and the disposition of the person using them, and they should not be viewed as magical talismans.

Replacing Sacraments: Some individuals might mistakenly think that sacramentals can replace the actual sacraments. While sacramentals are valuable aids to devotion, they do not confer the same sanctifying grace as the seven sacraments instituted by Christ.

Necessity for Salvation: Another misunderstanding is the belief that using sacramentals is necessary for salvation. This is not the case. While sacramentals can be powerful aids in one's spiritual journey, they are not essential for salvation. The sacraments, on the other hand, are necessary for certain aspects of the Christian life.

Superiority Over Prayer: Some may think that using sacramentals is more effective than prayer itself. Sacramentals are meant to enhance one's prayer life and devotion, not to replace heartfelt prayer and communication with God.

Religious Objects as Amulets: There's a misconception that blessed objects like medals or scapulars are like lucky charms or protective amulets. It's important to understand that these objects are meant to be worn or used with faith and devotion, not as mere accessories.

Misunderstanding of Blessings: There might be a misunderstanding of what it means for an object to be blessed. A blessing is not a guarantee of worldly success or a magical enchantment. It is a consecration, setting apart an object or person for a sacred purpose.

Overemphasis on Externals: Some people may place too much emphasis on the external act of using a sacramental, without recognizing the need for internal disposition and faith. The internal disposition of the person is crucial for sacramentals to have their full effect.

Neglecting Sacramentals: Conversely, there can be a misunderstanding where some Catholics might neglect or underestimate the value of sacramentals, viewing them as optional or irrelevant to their spiritual lives.

It's important for Catholics to have a clear understanding of sacramentals and to use them with faith, reverence, and an understanding of their purpose. They are aids to devotion and tools for growing in holiness, but they are not substitutes for genuine faith and a deep relationship with God.