Sacraments: Outward & Visible Signs of Inward & Spiritual Grace

The Book of Common Prayer defines sacraments as “outward and visible signs of inward and spiritual grace.” Dean Richard will describe why this idea is so profound and comforting. Because of this definition, Episcopalians rightly display reverence for Christ’s presence in the sacraments, including traditional ways like kneeling, crossing oneself, silence, and passing the peace. He will also explain why it is good that the cathedral is a broad church in which some people are more formal and others are less formal in how they express reverence. This class will end with an invitation to see that sacraments are “patterns of countless ways by which God uses material things to reach out to us” (BCP 861). If you are interested in preparing for this class, Richard suggests reading pages 857-861 in The Book of Common Prayer.

This Forum is part one of a three week series on the sacramental life.