Sacraments have universal meaning, Nigerian archbishop tells congress

Published: 2007-07-18

BUFFALO, N.Y. (CNS) -- Such common themes as the nourishing nature of the Eucharist and the cleansing of baptismal waters convey universal meaning to believers of many cultures, a Nigerian archbishop told participants in the 10th National Black Catholic Congress. Archbishop John Olorunfemi Onaiyekan of Abuja, Nigeria, delved into the symbolic nature of the seven sacraments during his July 13 keynote address. The symbols of the church not only convey universal meaning but also the presence of Christ in our lives, said the archbishop, who has served as co-president of the African Council of Religious Leaders. "To be Catholic is to really believe that Jesus is at work in his church," he said. He said the sacraments are the outward signs of the inward grace Christ has given to believers. Referring the audience to the Catechism of the Catholic Church for its discussion of the sacraments, Archbishop Onaiyekan spoke about each.

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