The seven sacraments

Baptism makes a person a member of the Church and is not repeated. Confirmation completes initiation with the gift of the Holy Spirit. The Eucharist is received repeatedly, throughout life.

Adults who want to be baptised usually join a parish process of preparation, often called OCIA or RCIA, which lasts months and involves no obligation until you choose it.

Reconciliation, described on its own page. Anointing of the Sick, for serious illness, before surgery, or in old age: it can be received more than once and is not only for the dying.

Marriage, in which the couple are the ministers of the sacrament to each other. Holy Orders, by which deacons, priests, and bishops are ordained.

On marriage: the Church holds that a marriage requires free consent. A declaration of nullity (an annulment) is a finding that something essential was absent from the start, such as consent given under coercion or fear. It is not a Catholic divorce, and it does not make children illegitimate.

Nothing in Catholic teaching requires a person to remain living with a spouse who is dangerous. Separation for the safety of a spouse or children is permitted, and physical safety comes first.