Sacraments and Human Nature

How do the sacraments correspond to human nature? This may seem like quite a confusing question to some of you, and it even was for me too at first. In accord with human nature, the Sacraments use physical, sensible signs to indicate spiritual, invisible realities. As humans sometimes an invisible sign and a type of symbolism isn't enough for us to fully understand. That is why Christ instituted the sacraments so that they could correspond to human nature. All seven of the sacraments use these visible signs which helps us to understand the meaning behind the sacrament. I will list the visible symbols for all seven sacraments: 

1. Baptism- water
2. Confirmation- candle, dove, crosier
3. Holy Orders- key, maniple
4. Eucharist- bread(body), wine(blood)
5. Anointing of the Sick- ampulla, crucifix, holy oil
6. Reconciliation- chalice, cross, stole, open book
7. Matrimony- ring(circle)

Some of these you may recognize and know what they symbolize, but some you may not. Most people may not know why a ring is the symbol for marriage, but they know that it is a symbol. The ring is a circle and the circle represents having no beginning or end (eternity). Also some of you may not know what a maniple is--it is the rope the priest wears around his garments. It represents the rope that Christ was bound to and how Christ still led his people. All these visible signs are important and help us see the true meaning of these sacraments. They not only represent something or an idea, they actually mean something as well.

s

s