Sacrifice and sacrament

the long version

What is the link between the human sacrifice of the Aztecs and the sacrifice of Christ on the Cross? What is the link between the puberty rites of West Africa and the sacrament of Confirmation? Throughout the history of Christianity sacrifice and sacrament have been vitally important. Yet, although considerable literature exists on the doctrinal, apologetic and devotional aspect of these institutions, little attention has been paid to the long and complex history that lies behind Christian developments and the context in which they occur.