THE

SACRAMENT

OF

HOLY ORDERS

What is ministry?Ministry means service. Christian ministry means to imitate Jesus, who said, “The Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve.” (Mark 10:45)

We are all called to “holiness.” It’s not an option – it’s a responsibility. By Baptism and Confirmation we are called to holiness and we answer that “general call” by our service – our ministry.

There is also a “special call” that only a few receive. It’s a “call” to ordained ministry.

It’s the “call” to receive the Sacrament of Holy Orders.

Various ordained ministries:• Bishop…………..Episcopate• Priest….…………Presbyterate• Deacon…………Diaconate

Episcopate – Bishop• Cardinals• Archbishops• Metropolitans

Successors of the Apostles

Shepherd of “the flock” – the followers of Jesus

Leaders in worship and service

Instructors in ways of salvation

The Pope is the Bishop of Rome.Holds special leadership role among the Bishops. Vicar of Christ.

Bishop – Ordinary of diocese (See)

Auxiliary Bishop(s) – assist

Co-adjutor – right of succession

Presbyterate – Priests (Presbyters)• Monsignors• Vicars (parochial)• Canon• Pastors

Priests assist the Bishop.

Usually put in charge of units within diocese called parishes.

Also in education, hospital/prison chaplains, military, diocesan office holders.

Two general types of Priests:• Diocesan (secular)

Under the Bishop

• Religious (order)Under the Abbot

Belong to religious community

Take vows (poverty, chastity, obedience)

Many different kinds

Diaconate – DeaconsTwo kinds:

Transitional

Permanent

Transitional• Usually 1 year• Single males

Permanent• Usually forever• Single/married males• Volunteer or full-time• Various ministries

Parish

Hospital

Prison

Education

Universal Church – All CatholicsEastern/Western Church

Served by Pope & Curia

Coordinate Church activities on international level

National Conference – Bishops of a nationFacilitates operations of Church at a national level

Diocese – territorial cluster of parishesAdministered by a Bishop with help of Diocesan Pastoral Team of ordained/lay associates

Parish – local Catholic communityAdministered by Pastor with Pastoral Team of ordained/lay associates