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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SACRAMENTAL GRACE

The grace conferred by the valid and fruitful reception of the sacraments. It may be one or more of several kinds: 1. sanctifying grace is communicated in baptism, penance and in anointing of the sick when needed; 2. sanctifying grace is always increased when a sacrament is received in the state of grace; 3. actual grace is given by all the sacraments, either actually at the time of reception or also by title as a person needs divine help; 4. the sacramental character is indelibly imprinted on the soul in baptism, confirmation, and the priesthood; and 5. a distinctive sacramental grace is imparted by each of the seven sacraments, corresponding to their respective purpose in the supernatural life of the soul.

See Also: EFFICACIOUS GRACE, See Also: GRACE, See Also: GRATUITOUS GRACE, See Also: HABITUAL GRACE, See Also: JUSTIFYING GRACE, See Also: SANATING GRACE, See Also: SANCTIFYING GRACE, See Also: ACTUAL GRACE, See Also: SUFFICIENT GRACE