Catholic Dictionary

Find accurate definitions of over 5,000 Catholic terms and phrases (including abbreviations). Based on Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

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MATTER, SACRAMENTAL

Material elements or sensible perceptible human actions that are necessary for the reception of a sacrament. They receive their significance from the accompanying ritual words. Valid matter must be used and is necessary for a valid sacrament.

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