Holy Orders is a sacred calling to serve Christ and His Church. Through this sacrament, a man responds to God’s invitation and is ordained for ministry after careful discernment and confirmation by the Church. Ordination sets him apart for a life of service, modeled on Christ’s own self-giving love.
The fullness of Holy Orders is found in the bishop, who, through the laying on of hands in apostolic succession, receives authority to teach, sanctify, and shepherd God’s people. This ministry is shared with priests, who celebrate the Eucharist—the source and summit of Christian life—and administer the sacraments, and with deacons, who serve through charity and proclaim the Gospel.
For a priest, the heart of his vocation is the Holy Mass. From this offering flows every aspect of his ministry: baptizing new members, reconciling sinners, anointing the sick, and guiding the faithful as a spiritual father. His life is one of prayer, sacrifice, and pastoral care, walking with God’s people in their joys and sorrows.
