Efficacy The Larger Catechism (Question 154) states that the sacraments “are made effectual to the elect for their salvation.” It also declares (Question 161) that the sacraments “become effectual means of salvation” (see also Shorter Catechism, Question 91). At first blush these statements might appear to be advocating a sacerdotal salvation, but nothing could be farther from the truth. For the Westminster Assembly, when speaking of the sacraments as “effectual means” of salvation, also declared