grace of that adoption. The chief of these means are the seven sacraments, through which, as through so many channels, He wishes His favorite graces to flow, and render your soul fertile in good works. In these you can find an antidote against every disease, and assistance in every distress. Hence, the Church may say to you with the Prophet: "You shall draw waters with joy, out of the Saviour's fountain." (Is. xii. 3.)
II. The infinite wisdom of God has adapted the sacraments to all our spiritual wants and necessities. By Baptism we are regenerated, freed from original sin, and admitted into the Church. This regenerated life is increased and strengthened by Confirmation. The Eucharist is its solid and substantial support. If it be attacked by any spiritual disease, or even if it be vitally injured, we have a remedy in Penance, and Extreme Unction arms it for the last and most dangerous combat. Holy Orders and Matrimony are instituted, in order to enable those, who embrace them, to perform their important duties consistently with the Spirit of God and religion. We may truly say with the Psalmist,. " Blessed are they, that dwell in thy house, O Lord," (Ps. lxxxiii. 5.) that is in the true Church of Jesus Christ.
III. These fountains of grace are open to all; none are excluded from them, however poor they may be. Hence the Prophet exclaims: "All ye that thirst, come to the waters, and you that have no money, make haste; buy and eat." (Is. lv. 1.) These fountains are continually flowing, like the widow's oil mentioned in the fourth book of Kings, as long as there are empty vessels (that is, humble souls,) to receive the life-giving waters. The efficacy of the sacraments does not depend on the virtues or vices of their ministers; but they infallibly work their effect, by virtue of their divine institution,
