Question 1

Why do Catholics have seven sacraments but Protestants only two?

Accepted Answer

Catholics base their seven sacraments on both Scripture and Church tradition, believing that Christ instituted all seven. Protestants, however, generally accept only Baptism and Eucharist as sacraments because they are explicitly commanded by Jesus in the Bible (Matthew 28:19 for Baptism; Luke 22:19 for Eucharist). Other rites like Confirmation or Holy Orders are seen as important but not necessary for salvation, so they are called 'ordinances' rather than sacraments.

Question 2

What is transubstantiation and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

Transubstantiation is the Catholic belief that during the Eucharist, the bread and wine become the actual body and blood of Jesus Christ, while still appearing as bread and wine. This is important because it affirms the real presence of Christ in the sacrament, making the Eucharist a true sacrifice and a means of receiving grace. It is based on Jesus’ words at the Last Supper: 'This is my body... this is my blood' (Matthew 26:26-28).

Question 3

Can a non-Catholic receive communion in a Catholic church?

Accepted Answer

Generally, no. The Catholic Church teaches that only those who are in full communion with the Church (i.e., baptised Catholics who have received Confirmation and are not in a state of mortal sin) should receive the Eucharist. This is because the Eucharist is a sign of unity in faith and doctrine. However, in exceptional circumstances, a non-Catholic Christian may receive if they believe in the real presence and cannot access their own minister.

Question 4

What is the difference between mortal and venial sin in confession?

Accepted Answer

Mortal sin is a grave violation of God’s law that destroys charity in the heart and separates a person from God. It must be confessed in the Sacrament of Penance. Venial sin is a lesser sin that weakens but does not break one’s relationship with God. It can be forgiven through other means, such as receiving the Eucharist or acts of contrition, but confession is still recommended. For a sin to be mortal, it must involve grave matter, full knowledge, and deliberate consent.

Question 5

Why is confirmation called a sacrament of initiation?

Accepted Answer

Confirmation completes the grace of Baptism by sealing the recipient with the gift of the Holy Spirit. It is called a sacrament of initiation because, together with Baptism and Eucharist, it brings a person into full membership of the Catholic Church. In the early Church, these three sacraments were received together at the Easter Vigil. Confirmation strengthens the believer to witness to Christ and defend the faith.

Question 6

What does 'ex opere operato' mean and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

'Ex opere operato' is Latin for 'from the work worked'. It means that the sacrament is effective because of Christ’s action, not because of the holiness of the priest or the recipient. This is important because it guarantees that the grace of the sacrament is always offered when the rite is properly performed with the right matter, form, and intention. For example, even if a priest is sinful, the Eucharist still validly consecrates the bread and wine.

The seven sacraments

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