It is through Holy Orders that “the mission entrusted by Christ to his apostles continues to be exercised in the Church until the end of time: thus it is the sacrament of apostolic ministry.”

In Jesus’ earthly life, Jesus gave a share in his priesthood to the 12 apostles. In turn, the priesthood has been handed on through the authority of the Church for two millennia. The priesthood is not a position of power, but of service (Matthew 20:25-28, John 13:2-20).
 

One of the primary functions of deacons, priests, and bishops is to administer the sacred rites of the Church to God’s people:

  • Bishops are said to have the “fullness of the priesthood,” because they alone have the authority to offer all seven sacraments — Baptism, Penance, Holy Eucharist, Confirmation, Matrimony, Anointing of the Sick, and Holy Orders.
  • Priests have the power and authority to celebrate five — Baptism, Penance, Holy Eucharist (Mass), Matrimony, and Anointing of the Sick.
  • Deacons can celebrate Baptism and Matrimony, provided that it’s a wedding without a Nuptial Mass.

Religious Life

Men and women who feel that they may be called by God to the religious life should talk with a Priest. Men who feel that they are being called to the Diaconate may contact the Office of the Diaconate. Feel free to contact the parish office to have a discussion.

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