- Sacraments originate from Christ and allow believers to experience God's presence, particularly through the paschal mystery of Jesus' death and resurrection. The sacraments are performed by God rather than through human action. - Early sacraments originated from rituals like baptism involving full immersion and the Eucharist occurring at the end of shared meals, though their meanings did not change as the rituals evolved over time. Seven sacraments were officially recognized in the 13th century. - Those preparing for initiation into the early Church through baptism underwent a long period of study and fasting before participating in the Easter Vigil rites of baptism, confirmation, and Eucharist.