The sacramental life of the Church

Holy Sacraments

Through the Holy Mysteries, the Church shares the life and grace of Christ with the faithful and sanctifies every stage of life, from birth to death.

The Orthodox Church commonly speaks of seven Sacraments: Baptism, Chrismation, the Holy Eucharist, Confession, Holy Matrimony, Holy Orders and Holy Unction. They cannot be separated from worship, faith and life in the Church.

The Holy Altar at St. Nectarios

The Holy Mysteries

Choose a Sacrament to read more. The priest guides every person through proper preparation.

Baptism

Through water, in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, we die and rise with Christ.

Plan a baptism →

Chrismation

Anointing with Holy Chrism, usually with Baptism or when entering the Church.

Joining the Church →

Holy Eucharist

Communion in the Body and Blood of Christ at every Divine Liturgy.

About worship →

Confession

Reconciliation with God and the Church, offered through the priest.

Speak with a priest →

Holy Matrimony

A man and woman united in a life of faithfulness, love and sacrifice.

Plan a wedding →

Holy Unction

Prayer and anointing with blessed oil for the sick and suffering, and for all on Holy Wednesday.

Request a visit →

Holy Orders

Bishops, priests and deacons are set apart to serve, after discernment with the clergy and the Metropolitan.

Prayer for All of Life

House blessings, memorials, forty-day blessings and more bring every part of life before God.

The iconostasis and side icons at St. Nectarios

Other Sacred Services

Beyond the seven Sacraments, the Church offers prayers that bring every part of life before God:

  • Funerals and the Trisagion prayers
  • Memorial services for the departed
  • House blessings, especially after Theophany
  • Forty-day blessings for mothers and newborns
  • Blessings for new homes, cars, businesses and more

Planning a Sacrament

Before choosing a date. The priest will explain eligibility, preparation, documents and sponsor requirements, and confirm the church calendar.

Sacraments are celebrated for Orthodox Christians, and some (such as Baptism and Holy Matrimony) also require the sponsor or family to be in good standing with a parish. The priest will explain what applies to you.

Speak with one of our priests after a service, or call the office to arrange a time.

Yes. Call the office during business hours, or the pastoral emergency line at (312) 352-0702 after hours.

Speak With a Priest

Every circumstance is personal. The Parish Office will help you begin the right preparation.