Which statement is true about sacramental signs?

Which statement is true about sacramental signs?

• A. They are purely symbolic without effect
• B. They are not connected to Jesus' founding
• C. They affect what they signify through their founding by Jesus
• D. They are optional for salvation

Answer: (C)

Sacramental signs are outward, visible actions that actually confer grace because Jesus instituted them and entrusted their administration to the Church. They are not mere symbols; their power comes from Christ, so the signs accomplish what they signify. In this sense, they affect what they signify through their founding by Jesus. They are not optional for salvation; while receiving them requires proper faith and disposition, the sacraments themselves are means of grace given by Christ.

Sacramental signs are outward, visible actions that actually confer grace because Jesus instituted them and entrusted their administration to the Church. They are not mere symbols; their power comes from Christ, so the signs accomplish what they signify. In this sense, they affect what they signify through their founding by Jesus. They are not optional for salvation; while receiving them requires proper faith and disposition, the sacraments themselves are means of grace given by Christ.