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The Sacrament of Holy Orders

Holy Orders is the sacrament through which a man is ordained as a deacon, priest, or bishop to serve the Church. It confers spiritual authority and grace, equipping the recipient to carry out his sacred duties. The soul is configured to Christ as a servant and instrument for His Church.

Key Points on the Sacrament of Holy Orders in the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC)

  • Holy Orders confers a permanent spiritual character, enabling the ordained to act in the person of Christ (CCC 1581)
  • There are three degrees: deacon, priest, and bishop, each with distinct roles within the Church (CCC 1554)
  • The sacrament gives the graces needed to carry out the responsibilities of the ordained (CCC 1592)
  • It is necessary for the Church's apostolic mission to continue through the ages (CCC 1540)
  • The laying on of hands and the prayer of consecration are central to the rite (CCC 1573)

To learn more about the vocation of priests and deacons, click the button below.

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