What is a sacrament?

The word sacrament is based on the Latin word sacramentum, which means "something sacred." During the Reformation, using Scripture as a guide, the reformers limited the number of sacraments to two: baptism and the Lord's Supper. These sacraments, instituted by Christ, are a means of grace within the covenant community. They are outward, visible signs and assurances of God's internal and invisible grace. We call them "means of grace." Through them we experience God's grace.