The sacraments that can be received only once are Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Orders.
- These three sacraments confer an official and permanent status within the Church; they are different participations in the priesthood of Christ.
1. This is because these sacraments imprint on the soul a spiritual mark or character, which consists in a special dedication to Christ. This mark is indelible, and is not effaced by anything, not even mortal sin. It will be borne by the soul for all eternity, for its greater glory if in heaven, and for its greater shame if in hell.
- A priest will be known as a priest forever, by the mark on his soul, whether he be in heaven or in hell.
2. Holy Eucharist, Penance, Anointing of the Sick and Matrimony leave no indelible mark, and may be received more than once.
- Anointing of the Sick may be received only once in the same sickness. Matrimony cannot be repeated until one of the parties dies. The more often Penance and Holy Eucharist are received, the better for the soul.