The Sacraments traces the historical development of each of the sacraments, highlighting the values and insights that particular historical forms enshrined. After an introductory chapter on the history of the Pontifical and Ritual (for the West) and the Euchology (for the East), the book examines: the sacraments of initiation; penance and reconciliation; the prayer and anointing of the sick; ordinations; marriage (complemented by a section on the consecration of virgins); the celebration of Christian death. Finally, there are chapter on processions, pilgrimages, and on relating popular devotion to liturgy; on blessings; and on monastic and religious professions.