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1. What do we usually understand by Sacramentals?

By Sacramentals we understand,

1. All those things which the Church blesses or consecrates for the Divine Service, or for our own pious use: as Holy Water, Oil, Salt, Bread, Wine, 'Palms, Altars, Chalices, etc.;

2. Also the Exorcisms, Blessings, and Consecrations used by the Church.

2. Why are such things called Sacramentals?

They are called Sacramentals because they resemble the Sacraments, though they are essentially different from them.

3. What is the difference between the Sacramentals and the Sacraments?

1. The Sacraments were instituted by God, and operate by the power which God gave them; the Sacramentals, on the contrary, were instituted by the Church, and produce their effects by the prayers and blessings of the Church;

3. The Sacraments have an infallible effect, unless we put an obstacle in their way; but the effect of the Sacramentals depends principally on the pious intention of the person who makes use of them;

3. The Sacraments effect immediately inward sanctification, whereas the Sacramentals, by imparting minor graces, only contribute towards it, and protect us also from temporal evils;

4. The Sacraments are in general necessary, and commanded by God; but the Sacramentals are only recommended by the Church as useful and wholesome.

4. Why does the Church consecrate or bless the things belonging to the Divine Service?

The Church consecrates or blesses all those things that