Holy Orders
The Sacrament of Holy Orders continues in the Church the apostolic ministry that the Lord gave to the Apostles. This sacrament, also called Ordination, consists of three degrees: diaconal (deacons), presbyteral (priests) and episcopal (bishops). Men who are ordained receive from God the grace to carry on the mission entrusted by Christ to his Apostles – bishops and priests participating in the priesthood of Christ and deacons in his ministry of service. While it takes years of formation and experience to prepare priests and deacons for Ordination, ultimately it is Christ who works in and through them.
If you or someone you know is interested in discerning a call to the priesthood, the permanent diaconate or other consecrated vocations, please speak with our pastor or contact the parish office.
Sets men and women apart for a life of ministry in service of Christ’s bride, the Church.
Common Questions - Holy Orders
Who can receive the sacrament of Holy Orders?
A baptized, Catholic man can be validly ordained to that ministry. The sacrament is not merely something a man can just claim for himself, or discern alone. The sacrament is a unique calling that God gives to men that He has chosen to serve His bride, the Church. The decision to become a priest is not made in isolation – members of the community play an important role in supporting any individual wishing to discern God’s call to Holy Orders.
What does a priest do?
The purpose of a priest is to bring people to Jesus, and Jesus to people. He does this primarily by preaching the Word and offering the Sacrifice of the Mass. His daily life involves administering the sacraments and caring for the people in their daily needs.
How do I know what God is calling me to do?
You must pray every single day, asking God to reveal His plan for you. Do not ask yourself, “What do I want to do when I grow up?” This is the wrong question! Rather, you should be thinking and asking: “Jesus, what do You want me to do?” And listen for the answer! The primary locus of revelation is the heart. Listen with your heart! The discernment process in the priesthood must also include the Church. The local bishop is the one who ultimately decides who is and who is not called. He is assisted in this by the vocation office and the seminary. This whole process is called “discerning one’s vocation.”
For more information, visit the Vocations & Seminarians Office page: https://rcav.org/vocations-office