Sacraments vs. Sacramentals

[Figment713]

(I’m not certain whether this belonged under “Liturgy and Sacraments” or under “Catholic Living”, but since one of the words was included in this sub-set, I decided here. I’ll certainly understand should someone decide it needs moved to another area of the board.)

The subject at RCIA class tonight was “Catholic Things”. Principally it was a discussion of Sacramentals and the Liturgical Year.

Anyway, the priest who led the class tonight is nothing short of brilliant. (I’d like to only think that someday I’ll be able to keep up with his mind). One of the things he threw out was the distinction of sacraments and sacramentals. He stated with regard to sacraments, one says they are “ex opere operato”. Sacramentals, on the other hand, are “ex opere operantis”. The explanation for these terms flew straight over my head!

While I do believe I get the difference between the 7 sacraments (instituted by Christ to convey grace) and sacramentals, I’d love to know the meaning of the Latin. Can anyone help me with this?

Thanks very much for your assistance.

 

[ajurban]

The distinction comes with ex opere operato meaning “by the very fact of the actions’ being performed” CCC 1128. This is basically talking about how the sacraments come to be through the power of God. I have to be honest I am not quite sure about operantis.

 

[ajurban]

I found this on newadvent.org and it helps quite a bit:“Ex opere operantis”, i.e. by reason of the agent, would mean that the action of the sacraments depended on the worthiness either of the minister or of the recipient. What it is getting at is that the agent or the one who is conferring the sacrament should be worthy (not in the state of mortal sin) nor should the recipient (unless they are going to confession)

 

[SMHW]

ajurban:

I found this on newadvent.org and it helps quite a bit:“Ex opere operantis”, i.e. by reason of the agent, would mean that the action of the sacraments depended on the worthiness either of the minister or of the recipient. What it is getting at is that the agent or the one who is conferring the sacrament should be worthy (not in the state of mortal sin) nor should the recipient (unless they are going to confession)

Except that in the context of the OP, “Ex opere operantis”, refers to sacramentals, (rosaries, holy water, religious medals…) not the sacraments.

I believe the point is that power of the sacraments comes from the action of them being performed. In the case of sacraments the person(s) conferring the sacrament is really acting as an agent of Christ. Hopefully such a person is worthy but the power of the sacrament is not dependent on said worthiness. In other words, the power of the sacraments is more objective.

However in the case of a sacramental, any power does depend on the worthiness of the person who makes use of the sacramental. The power of sacramentals is more subjective.