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Priesthood
In Catholic teaching, there are two participations in the one priesthood of Christ: the common priesthood of the faithful, conferred through Baptism, and the ministerial or hierarchical priesthood, conferred through the Sacrament of Holy Orders.
Ministerial and Common
In Catholic teaching, there are two participations in the one priesthood of Christ: the common priesthood of the faithful, conferred through Baptism, and the ministerial or hierarchical priesthood, conferred through the Sacrament of Holy Orders. These two priesthoods differ in essence and not merely in degree (CCC 1547). The ministerial priesthood serves the common priesthood and acts in the person of Christ the Head (in persona Christi capitis) in offering sacrifice and forgiving sins.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the ministerial priesthood differ from the common priesthood? While all the baptized share in the common priesthood, the ministerial priesthood (conferred by Holy Orders) acts in the person of Christ the Head to offer sacrifice and forgive sins.
May the Lord bless you and keep you.
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