"The Sacraments are not mere appearances, they are not rituals; they are the power of Christ; Jesus Christ is present in the Sacraments." - Pope Francis

Baptism, Confirmation, the Eucharist, Holy Matrimony, Reconciliation, Holy Orders, and the Anointing of the Sick - as Catholics we are familiar with the sacraments, and see them as mileposts in our lives.

But, as Pope Francis so energetically reminds us, they are not simply observances, they are portals through which the Lord brings us all the power and graces that flow from his death and Resurrection. And wonderfully, each sacrament opens us to a personal encounter with Jesus.

Now in 32 easy-to-read chapters Pope Francis reveals the truth and beauty of each Sacrament, teaching us not only what they mean to the Church, but to us as Catholics - ultimately motivating us each to share these incredible gifts with a needy world.