A State of Grace

1. A State of Grace Our Relationship with God

2. Grace The word grace simply means “gift.” Grace is a gift to us from God.

3. Sanctifying Grace • To “sanctify” means to make holy • Sanctifying grace puts us in the right relationship with God and makes us holy in His sight • So, what gifts does God give us to make us holy?!?

4. The Sacraments • A sacrament is an efficacious sign of grace, instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church, by which divine life is dispensed to us through the work of the Holy Spirit • Efficacious?!? • Capable of having the desired outcome or effect • What are the seven Sacraments?

5. The Sacraments • Sacraments of Initiation • Baptism • Eucharist • Confirmation • Receiving all three makes you a fully initiated member of the Church • Sacraments of Healing • Reconciliation • Anointing of the Sick • Sacraments of Service • Matrimony • Holy Orders

6. Baptism We first receive sanctifying grace at Baptism. The only way to “fall out of grace” is to have mortal sin on one’s soul.

7. Increasing Grace • We can increase in sanctifying grace by… • Receiving the Sacraments • Regular attendance at Mass to receive the Eucharist • Frequently going to Penance • Keeping the Commandments • Practicing the virtues of Faith, Hope, Charity, Prudence, Temperance, Justice and Fortitude • Praying Daily

8. Going to Heaven • One must be in a state of sanctifying grace to go to heaven • Ensured through Last Rites • Penance, Communion, Anointing of the Sick