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THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY ORDERS
“Becoming a priest or a man or woman religious is not primarily our own decision…Rather it is the response to a call and to a call of love.” –Pope Francis, Address to Seminarians and Novices, July 6, 2013
This Sacrament configures the bishop and priest to Christ as the Head of the Church in Christ’s threefold office of priest, prophet, and king. This Sacrament configures the deacon to Christ as servant.
The Sacrament of Holy Orders, like that of Baptism and Confirmation, confers an indelible or permanent character on the recipient. This means that the Sacrament cannot be received again. The indelible character is a reminder to the bishop, priest, or deacon that the vocation on the day of his ordination marks him permanently.
- A bishop is given the grace to teach in the name of Christ; to sanctify the Church through the celebration of the Sacraments; to guide, govern and defend the Church; and to be a sign of the unity of the Church.
- A priest is given the grace to proclaim the Gospel and preach, to celebrate the Sacraments (except Holy Orders), and to shepherd the people entrusted to him.
- A deacon is ordained to proclaim the Gospel and preach, to baptize, to assist the bishop or priest in the celebration of the Eucharist, to assist at and bless marriages, to preside at funerals, and to serve the community through works of charity.
For Holy Orders or interest in the vocations, contact Father Ian Hagan - A bishop is given the grace to teach in the name of Christ; to sanctify the Church through the celebration of the Sacraments; to guide, govern and defend the Church; and to be a sign of the unity of the Church.
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Permanent deacons
Permanent Deacons are ordained ministers who take the spirit and message of Jesus to the marketplace. Each deacon’s ministry varies. Some reach out to the sick, those in prison, the homeless, to serve the community as needed through works of charity. The deacon assists the presider at Mass, proclaims the gospel and may preach. He also conducts liturgical services including Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals and often assists the presider at Mass. For information contact Deacon Barry Harper or Deacon Dave Smith.
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