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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SPHRAGIS

The term originally used by the Fathers of the Church to identify the sacramental character conferred at baptism, confirmation, and orders. Literally it means a seal or identifying sign and describes the indelible and unlosable assimilation to Christ possessed by one who has the character. One is permanently and unalterably changed, so that nothing one ever does or becomes later on can eradicate this unique relationship to Christ.