Are we saved by faith or faith and works?

[Michaeljc4]

I realize this may be Catechism 101, but I am still confused by the difference between justification by faith alone, and justification by faith and works. Aren’t the sacraments ‘works,’ i.e. things you must do to have the right relationship with God? I’ve been reading the Letters of St. Paul, and he seems to fall pretty clearly on the side of faith alone. I realize this topic has been covered elsewhere…I’m just not sure where to look.

Thanks, and God bless

Michaeljc4

 

[Leonie_Ambrose]

Michaeljc4,

The following links should assist you in better understanding the Catholic Church’s teaching on salvation. If you have any further questions or concerns that are not answered by these links, please contact Catholic Answers directly.

Recommended Reading:
Salvation from the Catholic Answers Library
Once Saved, Always Saved? by Jason Evert
Is Justification Ongoing? by Mark Brumley
It’s Not Over ‘til It’s Over by Tim Staples

How should a Catholic reply to the question, “have you been saved?”
What’s the difference between redemption and salvation?
Where do I find info on salvation?

Why do we hold to conditional salvation?
Confused: I can’t be sure I’m going to heaven?
What about eternal security?
Does 1 John 5 confirm once saved, always saved?
Can one lose salvation?

Are we sacraments?