Holy Orders is the sacrament through which a man is ordained to serve the Church as a deacon, priest, or bishop. Through this sacrament, he receives a special gift of the Holy Spirit and is entrusted with a sacred mission from Christ.

What Happens in Holy Orders?

In Holy Orders, the ordained receives spiritual authority and grace to serve God’s people. This is not just taking up a role—it is a lifelong calling. The ordained minister acts in the person of Christ (in persona Christi), becoming an instrument through whom Christ continues His work.

The Priesthood in the Church

Jesus Christ is the one true mediator between God and humanity. The priesthood of the Church shares in His mission. Priests serve not by their own power, but through Christ working in them. Their life is rooted in humility, service, and dedication to God’s people.

The Three Degrees of Holy Orders

The sacrament has three degrees:

• Bishop (Episcopate)

Bishops are successors of the Apostles. They guide the Church by teaching, sanctifying, and governing. United with the Pope, they care for the universal Church and lead their local diocese.

• Priest (Presbyterate)

Priests are co-workers with the bishop. They proclaim God’s Word, celebrate the Sacraments, and especially offer the Holy Eucharist. Their ordination leaves a permanent spiritual mark.

• Deacon (Diaconate)

The word “deacon” means servant. Deacons are ordained for service in three key areas:

• Word – proclaiming the Gospel and preaching

• Liturgy – assisting at Mass and other celebrations

• Charity – serving the poor and those in need

Deacons represent Christ who came “not to be served, but to serve.” Today, the diaconate is a permanent vocation and can be lived by both celibate and married men.

What Happens at Ordination?

During ordination:

• The candidate is called forward

• He promises obedience to his bishop

• The bishop lays hands on him and prays, invoking the Holy Spirit

This sacrament imprints an indelible (permanent) spiritual character and cannot be repeated.

Who Can Receive Holy Orders?

A baptized Catholic man who is called by the Church can be ordained as a deacon, priest, or bishop.

Why Only Men?

The Church teaches that men and women have equal dignity but different roles and charisms. Following the example of Jesus, who chose men as Apostles, the Church continues to ordain only men to the priesthood. This is understood not as inequality, but as faithfulness to Christ’s example, while recognising the vital and indispensable role of women in the life of the Church.

Celibacy in the Church

In the Latin (Roman) Catholic Church, priests and bishops are called to live a celibate life—remaining unmarried “for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven.”

This is a sign of total dedication to God and His people, allowing them to serve with an undivided heart.

The Mission of the Ordained

Those ordained are called to:

• Proclaim the Word of God

• Celebrate the Sacraments

• Serve and guide the faithful

Above all, their life is one of service—continuing Christ’s mission of love, healing, and salvation.

The Priesthood of All Believers

Through Baptism, every Christian shares in a “common priesthood” and is called to live a life of faith and service.

At the same time, ordained priests serve in a unique way, representing Christ as shepherd and leader of His Church.