People with serious mental illness have identified spirituality as an important component in recovery. A positive relationship between religious beliefs and spiritual practices, such as worship, hymn singing, scripture reading and prayer and sustained recovery has been identified. Little research has been conducted as to the importance of participation in sacramental ministry. Sacramental ministry is broadly defined as a tangible element combined with a word from God. Using a structured interview format, an investigation into the ways in which sacramental ministry might function in the lives of those who live with a severe and persistent mental illness demonstrates that the concrete elements of bread, wine and oil, as offered during Holy Communion or prayer and anointing does contribute to recovery for those with severe mental disorders.