The Sacrament of Holy Orders

In the Sacrament of Holy Orders, through the bishop, Christ ordains particular men of the Church to share in a special way in his priesthood, as bishops, priests and deacons.

A priest is configured to Christ at his ordination and his ministerial work is done in the power of Christ, not in his own power: presiding at Mass, absolving sinners, anointing the sick, proclaiming and explaining the Gospel, giving blessings, and his whole pastoral leadership of building up a local community of faith.

Deacons are icons of Christ the Servant in their threefold ministry of charitable service of the poor, service of the Word through preaching and catechesis, and service of the Altar, through assisting the priest at Mass, administering the sacrament of Baptism, and officiating at weddings and funerals. 

​If you believe you have a call to the Priesthood, contact the Diocesan Vocations Director. For vocations to the Permanent Diaconate, please speak first to the Parish Priest. You may also find answers to some of your initial questions on St John's Seminary website.