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 (CCC 1536). It includes three degrees: episcopate, presbyterate, and diaconate (CCC 1536).

Sacramental Character

This sacrament configures the recipient to Christ by a special grace of the Holy Spirit, so that he may serve as Christ's instrument for His Church. By ordination one is enabled to act as a representative of Christ, Head of the Church, in His triple office of priest, prophet, and king (CCC 1581).

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can receive this sacrament? Only a baptized man (vir) validly receives sacred ordination (CCC 1577).