Holy Orders

Holy Orders

Deacons, priests, and bishops are called by Jesus, who told His apostles “You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you.” Jn 15:16. The apostles hastened after Jesus when He called, “Follow Me.” Mk 1:16, 2:13.

The Sacrament of Holy Orders is the sacrament through which the mission entrusted by Christ to His apostles continues to be exercised in the Church until the end of time. (CCC 1536) This ecclesiastical ministry is exercised in different degrees: bishops (episcopate), priests (presbyterate) and deacons (diaconate). (CCC 1554) The essential rite of the sacrament of Holy Orders for all three degrees consists in the bishop’s imposition of hands on the head of those to be ordained and in the bishop’s specific consecratory prayer. (CCC 1573) Through baptism, all the faithful share in the priesthood of Christ. This is called “common priesthood of the faithful.” (CCC 1591) The ministerial priesthood differs in essence from the common priesthood of the faithful because it confers a sacred power for the service of the people. (CCC 1592)

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a priest, deacon, or entering Religious Life, please contact our Pastor, or Father Don Williams, the Diocesan Director of Vocations and Seminarians at 570-207-1452 or visit the diocesan webpage.