Holy Orders

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; thus it is the sacrament of apostolic ministry.  It includes three degrees: episcopate, presbyterate, and diaconate.  (CCC, 1536)

Holy Orders are directed toward the salvation of others; if they contribute as well to personal salvation, it is through service to others that they do so.  They confer a particular mission in the Church and serve to build up the People of God.  (CCC, 1534)

St. Paul said to his disciple Timothy:  "I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is within you through the laying on of my hands" (2 Tim 1:6), and "If any one aspires to the office of bishop, he desires a noble task."

(1 Tim 3:1) To Titus he said: "This is why I left you in Crete, that you amend what was defective, and appoint presbyters in every town, as I directed you" (Titus 1:5).   (CCC, 1590)

The Church confers the sacrament of Holy Orders only on baptized men (viri), whose suitability for the exercise of the ministry has been duly recognized.  Church authority alone has the responsibility and right to call someone to receive the sacrament of Holy Orders.  (CCC, 1598)  

Interested in Knowing More?

Please feel free to contact any of our parish priests.  They will be happy to answer any of your questions or concerns.

Fr. John Metzinger

340-0691 Ext. 104

Fr. Dan Letourneau

340-0691 Ext. 106