The Sacraments

Why is the Catholic Faith a sacramental Faith? What are the sacraments, and what do they do? Sacramental theologian Father Paul Jerome Keller explains.

Questions Covered:

• 14:00 - What is the role of baptism in the Catholic faith, and what are the similarities and differences between our view and Protestant’s?
• 19:32 - How does the communion wafer get you into Heaven?
• 22:33 - I struggle with a particular sin, and my confessor gives me absolution, but I always return to it. Is there a point if I keep on doing it, when I won’t be forgiven by God?
• 29:34 - I have never been baptized. Is it a sin to partake of the bread and wine or bread and juice?
• 35:00 - What’s the difference between the Holy Spirit you receive at baptism versus the Holy Spirit you receive at Confirmation?
• 44:16 - When is it proper to take communion? And is it okay to take it twice a day?
• 48:06 - I have a special needs son and he’s going to have his first confession tomorrow. He knows the difference between right and wrong, but he has trouble expressing himself. He will also be receiving the Eucharist soon. How does the Catholic Church help people with special needs receive these sacraments?
• 53:02 - I would like to join the Catholic Church but my husband doesn’t want to. I’ve heard that if he doesn’t become Catholic that I won’t be able to receive the Eucharist. Is this true?

Resources Mentioned:

• 101 Questions & Answers on the Sacraments of Healing Penance & Anointing of the Sick by Fr. Paul Keller O.P.