178. If a sacrament is administered by someone who is unworthy, does it fail to have its effect?
No. The →SACRAMENTS are effective on the basis of the sacramental action that is carried out (ex opere operato), in other words, independently of the moral conduct or spiritual outlook of the minister. It is enough for him to intend to do what the →CHURCH does. [1127-1128, 1131]
By all means, ministers of the sacraments ought to live an exemplary life. But the sacraments take effect, not because of the →HOLINESS of their ministers, but rather because Christ himself is at work
in them. In any case, he respects our freedom when we receive the sacraments. That is why they have a positive effect only if we rely on Christ.
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