First comes Baptism, which is the gate, as it were, to all the other Sacraments, and by which we are born again unto Christ.

The next is Confirmation, by which we grow up and are strengthened in the grace of God.

The third is the Eucharist, that true bread from heaven which nourishes and sustains our souls to eternal life, according to these words of the Saviour: My flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed.

The fourth is Penance, through which lost health is recovered after we have been wounded by sin.

Next is Extreme Unction, which obliterates the remains of sin and invigorates the powers of the soul; for speaking of this Sacrament St. James says: If he be in sins, they shall be forgiven him.

Then follows Holy Orders, by which power is given to exercise perpetually in the Church the public administration of the Sacraments and to perform all the sacred functions.

The last is Matrimony, instituted to the end that, by means of the legitimate and holy union of man and woman, children may be procreated and religiously educated for the service of God, and for the preservation of the human race.