Sacraments are outward signs of inward grace, instituted by Christ for our sanctification.  They are also called Sacraments of Grace.

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While "cradle Catholics" will ordinarily receive the sacraments of initiation (baptism, holy communion, and confirmation) in the course of their ordinary life and education, those entering the church later may receive one or more of these through a program called Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults or Rite of Christian Initiation of Childern for older children.