Sacraments

The seven sacraments of the Catholic Church are outward signs, instituted by Christ, that provide grace to believers throughout their lives. They are celebrated within three categories: the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist), which welcome us into the Church; the Sacraments of Healing (Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick), which restore and strengthen us; and the Sacraments of Service (Holy Orders and Matrimony), which call us to serve God and others. Through these sacred rites, we encounter God’s love and receive the grace needed to navigate life’s journey.

Priest sitting for confession

Reconciliation

We all sin and fall short of the lives God calls us to lead. Through the Sacrament of Reconciliation and Penance, we confess our sins and experience anew the complete forgiveness of our loving God.

A priest anoints a person’s hands with the Oil of the Sick

Anointing of the Sick

When we are seriously ill or facing the end of our life on earth, we need God’s special grace. This sacrament provides comfort, strength, and courage to endure suffering, uniting us more closely with Christ’s own Passion.

Marriage ceremony at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Indianola

Matrimony

The Sacrament of Matrimony is a divine covenant between one man and one woman, mirroring Christ’s love for his Church. Through their vows, they are united in a lifelong, indissoluble bond, working for their mutual good and the raising of a family.

Prostration during Ordination Mass

Holy Orders

Through this sacrament, Christ calls and consecrates certain men to serve his people as bishops, priests, or deacons. They are given the authority and grace to lead, teach, and sanctify the Church in his name.

St. Thomas Aquinas Indianola worship space

Baptism

We are born into this world with original sin. Through the waters of Baptism, we are washed clean, reborn as children of God, and welcomed as new members of the Body of Christ.

Anointing with Chrism, during the Sacrament of Confirmation

Confirmation

Having been reborn in Baptism, we are called to be mature Christians. In Confirmation, we are sealed with the Holy Spirit and empowered to be full witnesses to Christ in our lives.

Fraction Rite during service

Eucharist

The Eucharist is the source and summit of our faith. In this sacrament, we receive the true Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, who gives himself to us completely for our spiritual nourishment and eternal life.

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

Adoration
of the Blessed
Sacrament

All parishioners are encouraged to give an hour each week in adoration of our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. St. Thomas is looking for people to commit to an hour a week in prayer and adoration.

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

All parishioners are encouraged to give an hour each week in adoration of our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. St. Thomas is looking for people to commit to an hour a week in prayer and adoration.

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament