The word Church refers to the baptized people of God who strive to embody Jesus in the world today. The six learning sessions present the dynamic nature of the Church as reflected in the story of Scripture and especially in the celebration of the sacraments today. This resource provides an opportunity for adults to look at the journey of faith, personally and in ministry, and to reflect on how the seven sacraments are part of this journey. Participants will find in the sacraments core expressions of faith that speak to all ages, cultures, and stages of faith development. With a clear understanding of the word sacrament, the motivation to be sacrament to others can be enhanced. The term sacrament, for the purpose of this book, is defined as reality imbued with the presence of God. This definition includes but is not limited to the privileged moments of grace experienced in the seven official sacraments. Each person can become the lived presence of God and build up the faith community by bringing conversion and new life, reconciliation and healing, commitment and service. The nourishing strength of Christ Jesus, both given and received in sacramental encounters, is the source of life for the Church.

Session titles are as follows: A Living Church--A Changing Church; The Rediscovery of Scripture; Sacramentality in the Church; Sacraments of Initiation; Sacraments of Healing; and Sacraments of Service.