Sacraments or Holy Mysteries
In the Eastern Church, we use the term Holy Mystery, as it is preferable in the context of the Eastern Rite. The mysteries, like the Church, are both visible and invisible. In every sacrament there is a combination of an outward visible sign with an inward spiritual grace.
The saving and sanctifying action of the Church is accomplished in seven Holy Mysteries. These are: Baptism, Chrismation, Eucharist, Repentance, Holy Anointing, Marriage and Orders. Through these sacred actions of the Church, Christ grants the grace of the Holy Spirit. Through these Mysteries the Church sanctifies the faithful on their journey to the fullness of life in Christ. Through visible signs (e.g., water, chrism, bread and wine, the laying on of hands) Christ builds up His Church in the Holy Mysteries…The external form of the rite and its material expressions are vital as they signify our deification and manifest the first fruits of transfigured nature. (#405 – Catechism of the Ukrainian Catholic Church – Christ Our Pascha)
Mysteries of Initiation
Baptism
The Rite of Chrismation
Eucharist
The early practice of the Eastern Church has been to celebrate the three sacraments – Baptism, Chrismation and Holy Eucharist or Mysteries of Initiation.
Through the prayers and sacred actions of the liturgical rite of each of these Mysteries, the Church leads the faithful into an understanding of the Mystery and perceiving it as a single, united action of God’s grace. This is why in the tradition of the Eastern Church, these three Holy Mysteries are celebrated together. (#408 – Catechism of the Ukrainian Catholic Church – Christ Our Pascha).
The Mysteries of Healing
The Mystery of the Anointing of the Sick
The sacrament of the sick or “Ieleopomazannia” (an anointing with holy oil) is recommended for any baptized person who is seriously ill.
The Mystery of Repentance
The Holy Mystery of Repentance (or Confession) is a marvelous manifestation of God’s love and mercy towards sinners.
“In the celebration of the Holy Mystery of Repentance, the Church actualizes the words of the Lord to the apostles: “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained” (John 20:22-23).
The Mysteries of Service
The Mystery of Marriage
Christ, through the Church, blesses the union of one man and one woman who come together in love and in fidelity to one another and create a domestic church, a Christian family.
The Mystery Holy Orders
For the love of mankind, God sent His Son not to condemn the world, but to save it. Christ calls Himself the Good Shepherd and promises to lay down His life for the sheep. Christ passes on His pastorship to His chosen apostles and their successors. He does this that through them He would continue to remain in the Church and lead it.
End of Life Mysteries
Spiritual Care, Funeral and Memorial Services
A Christian funeral is always filled with hope for the person’s resurrection in the flesh.
