Christian Cyclopedia

In RCm, holy signs, similar to sacraments, but instituted by the ch., that signify effects, esp. spiritual, obtained not directly, but through the intercession of the ch.; they dispose men to receive the main effect of sacraments and make various occasions holy. Sacramentals include priestly blessings and the prayers and ceremonies of the RC ritual. Blessed objects (e.g., palms, candles, holy water, medals, scapulars) are not sacramentals in the strict sense but only in a derived sense.